Exploring a Vintage Saab Accessory Brochure from 1976

When thinking about classic Saab accessory brochures, the usual suspect that comes to mind would be the 1983 version, with the iconic Sport and Rally steering pictured on the front. However, a lesser known version from 1976 with completely different options and accessories was offered during the 99's mid '70s production run in the US. 

Most of these accessories have been lost to time, as many of them are unseen or unheard of today. With those details in mind, that makes this brochure all the more fascinating. Now, let's explore this obscure Saab brochure from 1976!

1. The Cover: You can tell this brochure is from '76 via the side markers and front grille design. This car still has the early single amber turn signal lens, while featuring the updated design used from 1976 to 1980. 

2. Let's talk cruise control! The picture labeled (1) is an early cruise control option known as "Saab Speed Control," and was available on both manual and automatic transmission cars. I have yet to see a 99 with this option. 

The photo below (picture 3) shows a child resting their head on a seat cushion connecting to the front seat. It was meant to protect children in the event of a sudden stop, or accident. Like the speed control option, I've yet to see one on any existing 99. 

3. Floor Mats: I'd love to find a set of these. While the C900 floor mats fit right in, these "Saab 99" mats are a must have!

4. Spoiler Alert! Above and below are two factory spoiler options. The frontal air dam/spoiler was standard equipment on the 99 EMS and Turbo, albeit in black, but seeing a color matched air dam is something new.  As for that rear spoiler, well, I think we can all deduce why that never survived the test of time.

Also, note the license plate. This car was registered in Connecticut! Of course, Saab's US Headquarters was located in Orange, Connecticut, just an hour or so away from Rhode Island, my home state! I wonder if this car still exists in some form.

5. Roof racks: The top photo shows a dealer installed roof rack, permanently affixed to the roof of the car. The bottom photo shows the traditional removable roof rack. Most of us know the removable roof rack, but like that rear spoiler from above, I can see why the permanent rack was never really popular. 

6. Seat covers: Here are some groovy looking seat covers available to protect the also groovy looking 99 seats! Like the floor mats, I would love to see a set of these either surface online or reproduced. These are actually stylish and decent looking, and would fit the interior aesthetics of any vintage Saab. It's a shame Saab didn't produce more of these covers. 

I hope you've enjoyed exploring these strange and unique '70s Saab accessories. It's clear why some of these never got to see the light of day, or got the chance to become sought after parts on the vintage market. On the other hand, I can't help but wonder where some of these more desirable options, like the floor mats and seat covers, wound up. If any Saab 99 had these options, or still exists today with some of these, I would love to see them. The weirdness needs to be kept alive!