MEET THE CLUB CHAIRMAN – JON BENTLEY OF THE SAAB ENTHUSIASTS’ CLUB

Put simply, without clubs, the classic car movement would be unrecognisable. It is via the work of volunteers who give their time, expertise, and drive that so many vehicles have been preserved, as well as the legacy of countless brands. Jon Bentley is the Chairman of the SAAB Enthusiasts’ Club, whose stand always fascinates visitors to the Lancaster Insurance Classic Motor Show. He explains:

The SAAB Enthusiasts’ Club was born around a campfire, over some beers, back in 1989. SAAB was still manufacturing cars, and General Motors sponsored the official Owners’ Club and was really focused on the current models. Classic car owners formed the Enthusiasts’ Club, which focused on the old SAAB models.

It was Jon’s fascination with SAABs of the 1950s and 1960s – some of his spectacular fleet has starred in Lancaster’s blogs – that led to his involvement with the Enthusiasts’ Club:

I spend my time taking the cars to as many events as possible so people can learn about and enjoy them. I’m very passionate about using SAAB cars, so I organise drives and take part in tours. I have a great time promoting classic SAAB cars, taking them to every event I possibly can so people are able to experience two-stroke engines and SAAB engineering first-hand.

This writer has witnessed the effect of Jon’s SAABs on showgoers; earlier this year, his 1963 95 mesmerised younger motorists who had never encountered a steering column gear lever, let alone a two-stroke engine. Seeing the 95, or any other SAAB, in the metal also reminds people of the marque because, as Jon points out, it has “now ceased to be a manufacturing company”. In terms of membership:

The SAAB Enthusiasts’ Club embraces all models, and we have technical specialists who cover everything from 1950 through to 2012 to assist owners with their vehicles. Our membership ranges from 17-year-olds right through to more senior members. We have an award for young owners that we present at Swedish Day for the best young driver’s car. We encourage young owners and enthusiasts to spend time with other clubs, such as Volvo clubs, to promote a young community of Scandinavian car owners.

For many people, including myself, one of the stars of the 2022 Lancaster Insurance Classic Motor Show was Jon’s 1949 SAAB 92019, a car that makes a Bugatti Royale look like a familiar sight.  He notes:

It is one of the very few remaining prototypes, and SAAB made it as a test model, before the production line in Trollhättan started building the first SAABs. The car is restored to the very used condition it would have been in circa 1963 when the 92019 had been re-sold and was employed as a learner drivers’ car in the north of Sweden. This car has many historical elements, all preserved and available when it is shown.

As to the Club’s feature, Jon believes:

Fortunately, the history of SAAB cars, particularly with their rally history and much-loved family cars, will ensure their popularity in the future. As a club, we foresee somewhat of a renaissance and uprise in the popularity of old SAAB cars in the face of the changes to the current new market. Where can you get such a stylish, reliable and practical car where you don’t have to tax, pay for inspections and have a good economy? SAAB will fill a niche for younger drivers who like retro culture.

For 2025, the SAAB Enthusiasts’ Club has “many road tours organised, including an international tour to Switzerland for the SAAB Festival”. In addition, the Club will be taking part in “static shows throughout the Country that members can take part in, alongside the annual event in Mid Wales in September”.

And, to quote the famous sales slogan, the Enthusiasts’ Club will “Go Swift, Go Safe, Go SAAB”.

With thanks to Jon Bentley and his permission to use the image in this blog.