Left-hand drive
1968 Volvo P1800S Coupé
Registration no. to be advised
Chassis no. 183451025961

Introduced in 1960 and popularised by The Saint television series, Volvo's pretty P1800 sports coupé, although no hairy-chested tyre-shredder, was nonetheless something of a radical departure for the sober-sided Swedish concern. Based on the 121 saloon, the P1800 was built by Jensen Motors until production transferred to Sweden in 1963, and employed Volvo's rugged, four-cylinder, overhead-valve engine in 1,778cc form. Breathing through twin carburettors, this unit produced 100bhp, an output sufficient to propel the solidly built coupé to a top speed of around 105mph. The running gear was conventional, with independent front suspension and live rear axle, and all versions came with servo-assisted front disc brakes.

The introduction of the successor P1800S in 1963 brought with it a capacity increase to 1,985cc, power going up to 108bhp as a result. Fuel injection was standardised in 1969, maximum power increasing to 130bhp, with four-wheel disc brakes arriving at the same time. By the end of the 1960s, the model was beginning to look dated but the introduction of the Reliant GTE-influenced P1800ES sports estate extended its lease of life into the early 1970s.

We are advised that this left-hand drive P1800 was restored by the last owner. Works carried out include a full overhaul of the engine, gearbox and carburettors, and a bare metal re-spray. An exceptionally straight panelled example, the car is described as being in very good condition and is said to drive superbly. The provision of air conditioning – fitted with a new compressor – is the only notified deviation from factory specification.