Fifty years ago, legendary rally car driver Erik Carlsson romped through his first of three – in a row – British RAC rally titles while piloting a three-cylinder, 750 cc Saab 96.
As a Saab aficionado, Carlsson has always competed in rally races while driving only one brand and today, the Swedish manufacturer is celebrating Carlsson’s rally accomplishments by building a special edition Saab 9-3 carrying his name.
Called the Saab 9-3 Aero Carlsson, the 280-horsepower limited-run model was announced by Saab at a recent luncheon at the RAC Club in London to honor Carlsson himself.
Understandably, Carlsson was honored by Saab’s gesture. “This is a great occasion for me,” he said.
“I feel very honored to have a car named after me. Anyone who loves driving and is as passionate about Saab as I am will be excited about getting behind the wheel.”
We don’t know a great deal about Erik Carlsson because he raced even before we were born, but from what we’ve heard and read about him, he seems to have been one of the pre-eminent rally racers of his time so it’s only appropriate for Saab to honor the man that gave them their honor back in the day.
Press Release after the jump.
Saab celebrates 50th Anniversary of First RAC Rally Victory with special edition 9-3 originally appeared on topspeed.com on Friday, 8 October 2010 10:00 EST.
0 Comments.