A True Rarity: 1985 Saab 900 S Notchback

The "flatnose" 1979 to 1986 900 Turbos are already rare as they are desirable. The 1986 convertibles, which are distinctly the only year the 900 convertible was offered with the earlier front end design, are probably the best known "rare" 900. However, there is another far more rare and unusual version of the 900 that lurks around in the far corners of Saab's history in the US market.

For 1985 and 1986, Saab offered a notchback/coupe variant of the 900 in the US market. The 900 coupe had been introduced in Europe for the 1984 model year, and was mildly successful. With the success of the 900 sedan in the US, Saab decided to offer the new 900 coupe, alongside the 3-door hatchback and sedan. For 1985, it was available in the standard offerings the 900 had been available in. Most examples were sold in "S" or "Turbo" guise. However, only around 1200 models were sold, and sales ceased after 1986. The coupe continued to be sold in Europe, and is notably more common overseas.

Now, would you like to make the 900 coupe all the more rare? Feast your eyes on this 1985 900 S coupe. This 900 coupe has been outfitted with many catalog accessories, like Carrol Shelby Minilite wheels, wooden shifter knob, rear window louvres, sunroof visor, fog lights, and upgraded Clarion stereo. The cherry on top, though? This car has a dealer installed airflow kit. Yes, you read that right. The airflow kit is probably worth as much as the car, especially a pre-facelift kit.

Note the rear window louvres and airflow kit. Picture by Daniel Lee

I've also seen this car in the past as well. The South County Motors dealer badge is from a Saab repair shop and dealer that once existed in Wakefield, RI. My grandfather used to get his Saabs serviced there, and I remember several cars, including this one, at the shop. At the time, I never knew how rare the car was, but I'm glad to see it's survived. South County Motors closed its doors in 2020, after 48 years of business. Their Facebook page is still active, notably.

This car is currently for sale, with an asking price of $2500. Though it's very rare, it has been off the road for 20 or so years. It also has extensive rust on the right side control arm, and lower door sill. However, the rest of the car is structurally sound, and is worth saving.