Grand Designs

Saab’s radical 92 formula cleverly reengineered

The Saab 93 in graphic detail, internal layout and all.

Svenska Aeroplan Aktiebolaget (Swedish Aeroplane Corporation) faced an even more uncertain future than did the world’s motor manufacturers after WWII. Demand for warplanes had vanished. Consideration was given to diversifying into motorcycles, trucks and even fitted kitchens. A ‘subvolvo’ people’s car was finally identified as the most promising course to keep the Trollhättan factory and its staff employed.

A team of 16, of whom two had driving licences, embarked on the project in 1945. The basic configuration and personality of the new car were established by their ‘Ursaab’ and three subsequent prototypes. Streamlined bodies housed transverse twocylinder two-stroke DKW engines, frontwheel drive and independent suspension. The formula was consolidated for the production 92 model of 1949, which used a two-stroke twin built in-house.

The 93 that followed was a thoroughly reengineered package, more practical and more appealing to potential owners. Its handling and durability would serve it well – not just in challenging domestic service but in top-flight rally competition.