Handcrafted Saab Marvel: Tommy Gullberg’s 35-Year Journey Building a Unique Custom Car

A Unique Saab Built from Salvaged Parts

In an extraordinary showcase of passion and ingenuity, Tommy Gullberg shares the detailed story behind his handcrafted Saab-based sports car in a captivating new video by Motornord. Built entirely from two salvaged Saab 900 OG models—a former police car and a 1984 Saab 900—and other reclaimed parts, this custom vehicle exemplifies automotive creativity and skilled craftsmanship.

Pure Creativity Without Blueprints

Tommy Gullberg began the project in 1985 without any formal design or drawings. Instead, he relied on intuition and hands-on experimentation. Using wooden forms, steel reinforcements, fiberglass, carbon fiber, and kevlar, Gullberg meticulously crafted the car’s aerodynamic bodywork.

Resourcefulness and Innovative Solutions

Initially sparked by a friendly wager, Gullberg built the sports car at a time when purchasing one was financially impossible. By welding two damaged Saab 900 chassis into one cohesive frame, he created a strong platform with impressive weight distribution. Among the unique features are vacuum-operated retractable headlights, which are rare even in professional custom builds.

Boatbuilding Precision Meets Automotive Design

Gullberg’s extensive boatbuilding experience significantly influenced his choice of materials. The body consists of layers of fiberglass and carbon fiber reinforced with divinycell and kevlar, providing exceptional durability. He detailed each body panel on-site, seamlessly integrating various automotive parts into the overall design.

Striking Aesthetic Evolution

Originally Ferrari red, Gullberg later refinished the vehicle in metallic gray with subtle gold pearl flakes, creating a dynamic color shift under sunlight. This aesthetic evolution highlights his continual refinement, blending modern styling with classic sports car appeal.

Functionality and Purpose

The car is powered by a 16-valve turbocharged Saab engine with intercooler, yet Gullberg emphasizes that it was never built for speed. Instead, its purpose is celebrating craftsmanship, innovation, and personal fulfillment. He humorously notes in the video that cautious driving helps preserve his intricate handiwork.

Interior Attention to Detail

The interior maintains Saab heritage while ensuring comfort. Customized Saab 900 seats and a lowered dashboard provide a practical and unique driving environment. Gullberg’s pragmatic approach is evident, incorporating parts like Mercedes windshield wipers for their functionality.

A Testament to Enduring Passion

Spanning 35 years – from initial completion in 1989 to recent refinements—the finished car embodies Gullberg’s enduring dedication and craftsmanship. Motornord’s video captures this inspiring journey, Gullberg’s insights, and public reactions.

Watch the Full Interview

This video provides an intimate look into Tommy Gullberg’s automotive journey, reinforcing his reputation within the Saab enthusiast community.

Watch Tommy Gullberg’s Full Interview and Car Tour on Motornord: