This 57-year-old Saab 96 is a very rare Monte Carlo 850 spec dedicated to the triumphs of Erik Carlsson at the Monte Carlo rallies in 1962 and 1963. The vehicle, which is still fit for classic rally competitions and just needs an overhaul, is being traded in the UK for £3,600 right now.
The special Saab 96 stands apart from the stock model thanks to a number of exterior and interior modifications and an upgraded 841cc inline three-cylinder engine. The latter makes use of an upgraded cylinder head assembly and carburetors, among other things, and pushes 57 PS (56 hp / 42 kW) to the wheels instead of its usual 38 PS (37 hp / 28 kW). With a curb weight under 900 kilos (2,000 pounds), it should be a joy to drive.
More than two decades ago, the owner of the car at the time had it prepped for the British Historic Rally Championship. Once restored, the car received Corbeau bucket seats, a Momo steering wheel, a safety cage, track gauges and 15-inch wheels.
Once the job was complete, though, the owner had a change of mind and decided not to participate in the actual race. Since 2000, the car has been kept as a museum exhibit until the owner’s son ultimately put it up for the auction. In the listing, he points out that the engine hasn’t even been fired up once in 20 years, so another extensive round of maintenance is due before the Saab 96 can hit the track.