Born from jets

Back in 2005, Saab USA launched an ad campaign titled “Born from Jets“. Through both TV and print advertising, the company reached back to its unique aircraft roots. While the ads were received well and were deemed quite spectacular, they weren’t without controversy as defense company SAAB AB apparently wasn’t too happy with the campaign, in particular as non-Saab fighters were used by the ad agency. Back in Sweden, genuine Saab fighter jets can be found on pedestals all around the country in locations that have a (historic) connection with Saab. Here, a Saab 9-5NG SportCombi is standing beside a Saab Viggen in Grästorp, just outside of Trollhättan.

The first and only

The car in the picture is actually a true unicorn as it is the only known Saab 9-5NG SportCombi in Fjord Blue. Hand-built in the prototype assembly plant “Frickeboa” on the Saab factory grounds in Trollhättan, this SportCombi with VIN number YS3GR5AR8C9000013 is one of the few cars with US-specifications. So slightly different head- and taillights, an On-Star system and a differently shaped rear door, to name just a few of the visible differences versus the European cars.
Besides being the only SportCombi in Fjord Blue, it was also the first to get road legal following its sale at the bankruptcy auction in December 2012.

More information about this wonderful car and about the other remaining Saab 9-5NG SportCombis can be found on https://9-5sc2012.com/saab-9-5-sportcombi-2012-directory/