A rare survivor with pedigree
With only 639 examples produced in 1969, the Sonett II V4 represents one of Saab’s most exclusive production runs. Unlike the earlier two-stroke Sonetts, this model was fitted with the 1.5-liter Ford Taunus V4 engine, a decision Saab made to meet tightening US emissions standards and to deliver a more flexible power band for everyday use. Its distinctive hood bulge, added to clear the taller V4, has become an instantly recognizable detail for Saab enthusiasts.
Ed Shorer’s example is more than just a survivor—it is an alumni of Bring a Trailer. Shorer won the car in a January 2023 BaT auction as a running project, and since then it has undergone significant mechanical attention under the hands of Saab specialists. Today, it reappears on the same platform, only this time at no reserve.
Mechanical updates and roadworthiness
Shorer did not simply park the Sonett in his garage. He enlisted a trio of experienced Saab mechanics to bring the car to roadworthy condition. Their work included:
- fuel system cleaning and carburetor overhaul,
- valve adjustment and ignition refresh,
- rebuild of distributor and speedometer,
- replacement of the clutch master cylinder, starter, thermostat, and battery,
- new tires and rubber hood tie-downs,
- rewiring of the electrical harness with additional grounds.
The result is a Sonett that starts, runs, and drives with confidence—a rarity in the market where many examples linger as projects or display pieces. The seller emphasizes that any rust visible in photos is light surface rust only, with no structural issues.
Design and bodywork
The fiberglass clamshell body, finished in bright red, carries the hallmarks of the Sonett II’s hand-crafted aesthetic. This example sports a large glass rear window, free of cracks or chips, and Saab-branded hubcaps mounted on 15-inch steel wheels. The forward-hinged hood retains its functional scoop, and the car features rear bumperettes and a single exhaust exit integrated through the rear valance.
The seller notes LED reverse and license plate lighting updates, refreshed sockets, and new bulbs throughout. While the paintwork shows touch-ups and imperfections, the overall presentation is honest, aligning with its history as a driver-quality vintage Saab rather than a showpiece.
Interior and instrumentation
Inside, the Sonett remains faithful to its spartan but purposeful Scandinavian design. Fixed-back black vinyl bucket seats are supported by a roll bar, a heater unit, and simple dashboard controls. Under current ownership, the window and door locks were repaired, the heater valve replaced, and electrical accessories were restored to functionality.
The three-spoke steering wheel now wears a leather wrap, and behind it sits a refreshed VDO instrument cluster, including a rebuilt 120-mph speedometer, tachometer, fuel, and coolant gauges. The five-digit odometer shows just 16,000 miles, with approximately 300 logged since Shorer’s acquisition. True mileage is unknown, but mechanical documentation and recent invoices offer confidence for the next owner.
Driving character
On paper, the Sonett II V4’s 65 horsepower may seem modest, but combined with a curb weight of around 1,700 pounds, it offers a spirited experience. The column-mounted four-speed gearbox, unusual in a sports car, adds to the Saab quirk factor, while the front-wheel-drive layout provides stability in conditions where traditional rear-drive coupes faltered.
Front disc brakes, rack-and-pinion steering, and the nimbleness of fiberglass construction give the Sonett an engaging character—Saab’s Scandinavian answer to European sports cars of its era.
Auction details
The car is currently live on Bring a Trailer with bidding at $2,777 at the time of writing. The auction runs for another six days and, crucially, carries no reserve. Included in the sale are service records, a clean California title, and a copy of the Vintage Saab Club of North America’s “Vintage Views” magazine, which featured this very car in 2023.
In the seller’s own words: “It is not often that a roadworthy, rust-free Sonett becomes available. This is your chance.”
Why it matters for saab enthusiasts
For Saab collectors, the Sonett II V4 represents a unique intersection of engineering necessity and brand identity. It bridged Saab’s transition from two-stroke racing heritage into four-stroke road cars while still maintaining the company’s offbeat design language. Cars like this—roadworthy, documented, and auctioned without reserve—are becoming harder to find in the wild.
This example is not a concours car, but it doesn’t need to be. It embodies the true spirit of Saab ownership: practical improvements, community expertise, and a willingness to drive the car as it was intended.
Final verdict: a sonett ready for the next chapter
Ed Shorer’s 1969 Saab Sonett V4 is more than a static collectible—it is a car that has been thoughtfully sorted and prepared for road use. With a transparent presentation, extensive service work, and no reserve on Bring a Trailer, it represents a genuine opportunity for enthusiasts who value Saab’s eccentric approach to sports car design.
For those who have been waiting for the right Sonett, this might be the time to raise a paddle.
