Our featured vehicle for November is a true classic in every sense a Saab 900 Classic, which was recently imported to Cyprus by its owner Geof Hansford-Adams.
The 900 Classic was the basic model produced by Saab for 16 years from 1978 and was powered by a 1995cc petrol engine which was derived from a Triumph engine. However, in the 900 it is inclined at 45degrees and turned around so that the flywheel and fan belts are behind the engine. The Saab 900 is a uniquely styled 4 door saloon car with a reputation for quality and reliability, but why did Geof choose one as his Classic Car? This is his answer to that question.
“My introduction to Saab was in 1979, when I was involved in a serious head-on collision, whilst driving an Austin Maxi which was completely crushed on impact. I resolved to replace the Maxi with the safest car I could find and sought advice from an old friend, Dave, who had been a co-driver to Eric Carlson, a world famous rally driver in the 1960s. Carlson use to drive for Saab and had the nickname of “on the roof Carlson” due to the number of times that he had rolled his car. However, he would just push the car upright and continue on the rally demonstrating how Saab engineered toughness and safety into their cars. Relying on Dave`s advice a Saab 99 was purchased and I enjoyed many years of carefree and safe driving.
When the time came to acquire a classic car which I could use on the numerous Regularity Rallies that I drive here in Cyprus, there was only one car for me. It had to be a Saab, however I choose the 900, which is an improved version of my old 99.”
The Saab 900 Classic has a non-turbo engine, but still provides 100hp and is still capable of over 105mph.Geof`s car which has only 80,000 miles on the clock, was renovated about 6 years ago, and is in the same immaculate condition as when it left the showroom in 1987.
You can inspect this Saab Classic and other fantastic vehicles at any PCVC meetings and events. For full details visit our Facebook page or our website:
www.paphosclassicvehicleclub.com
or telephone 97760997.
