Saab Granturismo
| Company type | Product line |
|---|---|
| Industry | Automotive |
| Predecessor | Saab 93 |
| Founded | 1958 |
| Defunct | 1968 |
| Successor | Saab Monte Carlo, Saab Monte Carlo V4 |
Area served | United States, Sweden, other markets |
| Products | Enhanced-performance sedans |
| Parent | Saab Automobile AB |
The Saab Granturismo—also marketed as the Monte Carlo and Sport—comprised a lineup of enhanced-performance sedans produced by Saab Automobile AB between 1958 and 1968. Initially, these models were equipped with three-cylinder, two-stroke powerplants until the release of the 1967 edition. Most Granturismo versions were visually set apart from the base models by dual metallic stripes running along the rocker panels.
Saab 93-based model
The Granturismo 750 represented a sportier iteration of the Saab 93, which debuted at the New York International Auto Show in 1956 and remained in production through 1960. Notably, the Saab 93 incorporated seat belts as early as 1958, predating their mandatory status in U.S. vehicles until 1973.
While sharing core components such as front drum brakes with the standard Saab 93, the Granturismo featured several enhancements: a steering wheel with a wooden rim, a Halda Speedpilot timing instrument designed for use in rally competitions, sport-style seating, auxiliary driving lamps, and distinctive metal trim along the rocker panels. The 1958 model was unique in offering Rear-hinged doors. Out of the total production of approximately 600 Granturismo 750 units during 1958 and 1959, about 546 were shipped to the United States market.
The upgraded powertrain employed a two-stroke Saab engine with a compression ratio of 9:1, outfitted with a twin-barrel Solex carburetor, a specially designed exhaust system, and dual fuel pumps to generate 50 hp (37 kW). For enhanced performance, an optional twin-carburetor Competition tuning kit was available, increasing output to 57 hp (43 kW). Peak power was delivered at elevated engine speeds ranging from 3400 to 5000 rpm. Lubrication for the two-stroke engine was achieved by mixing oil directly into the fuel at a ratio of three percent. The vehicle featured a three-speed manual transmission. To address lubrication challenges arising when engine rpm exceeded throttle settings—due to reduced oil delivery—a freewheel mechanism was installed to mitigate this issue.
Saab 96-derived versions
Swedish rally driver Erik Carlsson, a multiple-time Royal Automobile Club rally winner, achieved three victories driving a 1960 Saab 96. This model served as the foundation for the Granturismo 750 produced in 1960 and 1961. The variant based on the Saab 96 featured a four-speed gearbox equipped with freewheeling, along with chrome-trimmed wheels and rear quarter windows designed for ventilation.[1]
In 1962, the Saab Sport succeeded this model, continuing to utilize the Saab 96 platform but incorporating minor alterations and a redesigned interior layout with updated equipment. The powertrain was enhanced to an 841 cc three-cylinder two-stroke engine, each cylinder supplied by its own Solex carburetor, delivering 57 hp (43 kW). Lubrication was managed through an oil injection system drawing from a dedicated two-stroke oil reservoir, eliminating the necessity of pre-mixing oil with fuel. Notably, front disc brakes were employed—an uncommon feature at that period—and the wheels were reinforced with four studs instead of five, as found on the Saab 96, to accommodate the increased mechanical demands.[1]
- Beginning in 1963, the USA market version was marketed as the Granturismo 850.[1]
- For the 1965 model year, engine output increased to 60 hp (45 kW).[1]
- From 1966 onwards, all models across markets adopted the Monte Carlo 850 name, commemorating triumphs in the Monte Carlo Rally.[1]
- Throughout 1967, two-stroke variants were gradually replaced by the Monte Carlo V4, powered by a 65 hp (48 kW) Ford Taunus V4 engine.[1][2]
- Production of these models concluded in 1968.[1]
Gallery
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Granturismo 750 based on Saab 93
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Early Saab Sport derived from Saab 96 (pre-1965) featuring a short nose
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Later Saab Sport based on Saab 96 (post-1965) with extended nose
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Saab Monte Carlo equipped with V4 engine
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Dashboard of the Saab GT850
