Read below for a basic overview and brief history of each model generation of the Saab Sonett. You will also see full specifications for the I, II, V4 and III below each description.
Saab Sonett I (1955-1957)
The first Saab Sonett, also known as the Super Sport or Saab 94, was a race car based on aircraft design concepts. It was introduced at the Stockholm’s Motor Show in 1956, and had a 3-cylinder, 748 cc, 2-stroke engine. It had a projected top speed of approximately 120 mph. The Sonett I was planned for mass production, as it was touted to achieve great success in the European circuit. However, due to a rule change allowing modified production cars to participate in races halted the Sonett I’s production. As a result, only 6 Sonett I’s were ever built.
Sonett I Specifications
- Model Years: 1955, 1956, 1957
- Body: 2 Door & 2 Seat Roaster
- Layout: Mid Engine / Front Wheel Drive
- Engine: Two Stroke 57.5 HP 748cc 3Cyl
- Curb Weight: 1,323 lb
Saab Sonett II & V4 (1966-1969)
The Sonett II started out as 2-seat roadster with a 2-stroke engine in 1966. It had a top speed of 150 mph. However, the declining interest in 2-stroke engines at the time forced Saab to switch the Sonett II’s engine with a Ford Taunus V4 in the middle of production in 1967. The Sonett II was then renamed the Sonett V4. Despite its lackluster marketing, quirky design, and unusual features such as a front-wheel drive and a freewheeling clutch, the Saab V4 achieved success in the US market largely due to the Sonett II’s outstanding racing performance.
Sonett II & V4 Specifications
- Model Years: 1966, 1967 / 1967, 1968, 1969 (V4)
- Body: 2 Door Coupe
- Layout: Front Engine / Front Wheel Drive
- Engine: Two Stroke 60 HP 841cc IS / 65 HP 1,498cc Ford Taurus (V4)
Saab Sonett III (1970-1974)
In 1970, the Sonett V4 was redesigned for use outside of the race track and renamed the Sonett III. The Sonett III’s new hood design made for a smaller engine compartment. It featured hidden headlamps, a floor-mounted shifter, and hinged rear-window glass. It achieved top speeds of up to 165 mph, and featured a 1500 cc, 65 horsepower engine. The Saab III showed great promise, however the 1973 oil crisis led to the end of its production in 1974.
Sonett III Specifications
- Model Years: 1970, 1971, 1972, 1973, 1974
- Body: 2 Door Coupe
- Layout: Front Engine / Front Wheel Drive
- Engine: V4 65 HP 1,498cc Ford Taurus
- Wheelbase: 85 in
- Length: 150 in
- Width: 59 in
- Curb Weight: 1,900 lb
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