Back from the Brink A Classic S800 Restored

Discovering a Diamond in the Rough

It all started with a dusty, forgotten corner of a barn. There, nestled amongst rusted tools and decaying farm equipment, sat a 1970s Saab Sonett S800. Covered in years of grime, its once vibrant paint faded and cracked, the car looked more like a forgotten relic than a classic sports car. But beneath the layers of neglect, something special was waiting to be rediscovered. The owner, a friend of a friend, knew of my passion for restoring classic cars and offered it to me – a project car in need of serious love and attention.

Assessing the Damage: A Comprehensive Inspection

The initial assessment was daunting. Rust had taken its toll, particularly on the undercarriage and body panels. The interior was in tatters, with torn upholstery, cracked dashboard, and missing parts. The engine bay was a jumble of grime and corroded components. However, the chassis was remarkably solid, a testament to Saab’s robust engineering. The engine, though seized, was largely complete. This discovery infused a renewed sense of optimism into the project. It wasn’t hopeless; it was a challenge, a rewarding one at that.

Stripping Down to the Bare Essentials: Disassembly and Cleaning

The first stage was a complete strip-down. Every single part, from the smallest bolt to the largest body panel, was carefully removed, cataloged, and cleaned. This painstaking process revealed the extent of the damage, but also highlighted the car’s underlying structural integrity. The process was both meticulous and satisfying, as each layer of neglect was peeled away, revealing the original beauty beneath. It was like an archeological dig, uncovering a hidden treasure.

Bodywork and Paint: Restoring the Exterior

Restoring the bodywork was a labor of love. Hours were spent repairing rust damage, using welding techniques to mend the holes and strengthen the structure. Once the rust was dealt with, the body was smoothed using filler, ensuring a seamless finish. Then came the painstaking process of priming and painting. I decided to stay true to the original color, a deep, rich shade of blue that, after many coats, once again brought this classic car back to life. The result was stunning, a testament to patience and precision.

Mechanical Resurrection: Reviving the Engine and Drivetrain

Rebuilding the engine was the most technically challenging aspect of the restoration. The engine was completely disassembled, parts were cleaned, inspected, and replaced where necessary. The engine block and cylinder head were meticulously checked for cracks, and worn parts were replaced with meticulously sourced replacements. With the engine painstakingly reassembled, the entire drivetrain received the same level of attention. After many hours of careful work and testing, the engine roared back to life, a sound that was both exhilarating and deeply satisfying.

Interior Rejuvenation: Comfort and Style

The interior was completely refurbished. New upholstery was sourced, matching the original design as closely as possible. The dashboard was carefully repaired and repainted, restoring its original elegance. New carpets and trim were installed, transforming the once-dilapidated cabin into a comfortable and stylish space. The final touch was reinstalling the original steering wheel, completing the transformation and giving the driver that authentic feel from back in the day.

The Grand Reveal: A Triumphant Return

After months of dedicated work, the restored Saab Sonett S800 was finally ready. The transformation was remarkable. From a neglected barn find, it had become a gleaming example of classic automotive engineering. The car was more than just a restoration; it was a testament to the power of passion, patience, and the desire to bring something back from the brink. Driving it is an unparalleled experience, a smooth, responsive ride that harkens back to a simpler, more elegant era of automotive design. Visit here for information about Honda S800 restoration.