A one-off Saab prototype is headed to public sale shortly. Known as the Saab EX, the distinctive automotive is scheduled to cross the block at a Bonhams public sale on October 8.

Constructed to have fun Saab’s fiftieth anniversary in 1997, the EX was constructed not in Sweden, however in Oslo, Norway, by Per Ekstrøm. Nevertheless, it was inbuilt collaboration with each the Saab manufacturing facility and Norwegian authorities, guaranteeing that it’s absolutely highway authorized and drives like Saab manufacturing automobiles of the interval, in line with the public sale itemizing.

Sharing a wheelbase with the up to date Saab 900, the EX has exaggerated coupe styling with a low roof and widened fenders. The styling was developed with sketches and clay fashions—similar to an idea automotive designed by an automaker.

The automotive began out as a inventory Saab 900 physique shell. The roof was then lowered 2.7 inches and the tailgate incorporates rear-window glass from a 900 convertible. The wide-body look was achieved with wheel arches from a Saab CS 9000. All of this work consumed an estimates 3,000 to 4,000 hours.

1997 Saab EX Prototype

Smaller design touches embody a relocated gas cap and a rearview digital camera. A novelty in 1997, the digital camera is mounted within the tailgate lock cylinder and is related to an Alpine stereo system’s head unit.

Designed to be absolutely drivable, the EX is powered by a 2.3-liter turbo-4 producing 220 hp. The engine has 95,691 miles on it, however the automotive itself has a lot much less, in line with the public sale itemizing. For the final 5 years, it has been displayed at Norwegian Saab specialist Gjestrum Larsen AS.

1997 Saab EX Prototype

At present situated in Belgium, the EX acquired a European Union technical inspection earlier this yr. Which means it is nonetheless highway authorized in most European nations, Bonhams notes. The prototype can be registered with the VIN from a 1987 Saab 9000CC, giving it “old-timer” standing in Europe. Whether or not age is decided by the VIN or the yr of building, the EX additionally exceeds the 25-year rule that lifts many limitations to importation of automobiles not initially offered within the U.S.

The Saab EX prototype can be offered with out reserve, with an estimated hammer worth of 60,000 to 90,000 euros (roughly $63,000 to $95,000 at present trade charges). That does not sound too unhealthy for an uncommon piece of historical past from a defunct automaker that—at the least in some locations—you may really drive.