Saab Sonett III
The quirky, fiberglass-bodied Swedish wedge with a Ford V4 heart.
- Power
- 65 bhp
- 0–60 mph
- 11.5 s
- Top speed
- 103 mph
- Est. value
- $10k–$16k
About the Saab Sonett III
The Saab Sonett III was a significant redesign of the Sonett II, featuring a more aerodynamic fiberglass body penned by Sergio Coggiola and refined by Gunnar Sjögren. To meet US emissions standards, the 1972 model utilised a larger 1.7-litre Ford V4 engine, though power remained at 65 hp to satisfy federal regulations. It is notable for its manually operated pop-up headlights and a floor-mounted shifter, a departure from Saab's traditional column-mounted units. Collectors value the Sonett III for its lightweight agility, distinctive Swedish-Italian styling, and its status as Saab's final dedicated sports car.
Saab Sonett III specs
The Saab Sonett III produces 65 bhp (48 kW) and 115 Nm (85 lb-ft) of torque. It reaches 60 mph in 11.5 seconds and has a top speed of 103 mph (165 km/h).
| Make | Saab |
|---|---|
| Model | Sonett |
| Generation | III |
| Trim | 1.7 V4 |
| Years | 1970–1974 |
| Type | Sports car |
| Body style | Coupé |
| Country | Sweden |
| Production | About 8,368 built |
| Original price | About $3,800 when new |
| Engine | 1.7-litre Ford V4 |
|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,699 cc (1.7 litres) |
| Induction | Naturally aspirated |
| Power | 65 bhp (48 kW) at 4,700 rpm |
| Torque | 115 Nm (85 lb-ft) |
| Redline | 5,500 rpm |
| 0–60 mph | 11.5 s |
| Top speed | 103 mph (165 km/h) |
| Transmission | 4-speed manual |
| Drivetrain | Front-wheel drive |
| Weight | 820 kg (1,808 lb) |
| Power-to-weight | 79 bhp per tonne |
Typical figures for the standard car; options, markets and model years vary. Where our specs come from
How much is a Saab Sonett III worth?
A typical Saab Sonett III is estimated to be worth $9,900 – $16,000 (about £7,400 – £12,000).
Its original price when new was about $3,800.
Values are directional estimates for a typical example, not appraisals. Condition, mileage, history and specification all change what a real car is worth. Pound figures use the exchange rate of 3 November 2026. How values are estimated
Saab Sonett III rarity in CarSpot
The Saab Sonett III is a Rare card in CarSpot, with a rarity score of 46 out of 100. Performance cars, typically worth around £50,000 to £100,000. A Rare card is worth 40 XP.
Each model's tier starts from a 0–100 score based on its value plus its power or production numbers. Once enough players have spotted a model, how often it is spotted can move it up or down one tier. How CarSpot rarity works
Rarity is a collectible game mechanic, not an assessment of real-world scarcity or value.
Saab Sonett III fun facts
- The name 'Sonett' comes from the Swedish phrase 'Så nätt den är', which translates to 'how neat it is'.
- The pop-up headlights are not vacuum-operated or electric; they are raised and lowered via a manual lever in the cabin.
- Despite its sporty looks, the Sonett III shared many mechanical components with the humble Saab 96 saloon, including the front-wheel-drive layout.