Beschreibung
History:
With the P1800, the Swedes created a sports coupé that is one of the most exciting cars of the 20th century. This is probably one of the reasons why Simon Templar chose this car, even though a Jaguar E-Type Coupé was first on his wish list. Although more expensive than a Porsche and Alfa Romeo, the beautiful coupé from the pen of the Italian design office Pietro Frua became the darling of the design elite and a groundbreaking success. 18 months after its launch, total production was transferred from England to Sweden, which is why the abbreviation "S" appears at the rear of these cars. One of these genuine Swedes is the original white example as piloted by Roger Moore in the second season of the crime series "The Saint". This P1800S was driven just over 100'000km by its first owner from Frölunda near Gothenburg until autumn 2010, when it was imported to Switzerland via Germany by its new owner and veteran-tested for the first time.
Body and paint:
The body of the Swedish-produced P1800 was based on a pre-treated steel, which made it much less susceptible to rust than the first British-built series. The sheet metal dress is completely free of rust. The paintwork, which was renewed in Germany 11 years ago, shows some marginal signs of use, but with no current need for action. The chrome parts such as bumpers, trim and radiator grille are in excellent condition. The chrome surrounds of the tail lights and reversing lamp show an honest patina without being damaged. The doors, bonnet and boot lid close very well, sealing rubbers are new, which is why the door gaps are still slightly larger towards the outside. The boot offers plenty of storage space and is lined with the original protective mat.
Interior:
The leather seats, which were renewed in 2017, are not only well-maintained, the upholstery is also impeccable and so the seats allow very long journeys. The headlining and the carpet landscape were also made to a high quality and to measure 5 years ago. The MotoLita leather steering wheel was installed with the planned sporty use in mind, has a good grip and matches the interior perfectly. Even an original Blaupunkt radio was included to preserve the originality.
Engine and mechanics:
As the car has been driven very little from 2018 to 2022, a full technical inspection will be carried out for the fresh MOT, which will be documented in the existing service booklet. The wonderful and tireless running characteristics of this engine are famous, as it is the world champion in longevity; around 5 million kilometres have been driven by a US owner with his P1800 so far. The gearbox works perfectly and the clutch engages without delay.
Chassis:
The chassis and brake system were completely overhauled and the wheels replaced less than 5'000km ago. The all-weather tyres are as good as new and suitable even for winter driving. The underbody is clean, undamaged and appropriately veteran-worthy. The then restored substance has been treated with a fresh wax preservation.
Driving experience:
The Coupé exudes chique and sportiness. And that's how it drives. Although the engine is not a racing machine, many a "competitor" of the 60s with a sportier name has to make an effort to keep up. Thanks to the sophisticated chassis and powerful brakes, many a Swabian, Bavarian or Italian can be outwitted. What this classic masters is comfortable travelling. Even before the driver gets tired, it's time to go back to the petrol station after about 400 km - you drive the Coupé almost non-stop. The noise level is comparatively moderate, because thanks to the overdrive in 5th gear you can drive at low revs.
Recommendation:
The Volvo Coupé is a classic car for life - and also for the next generation. The timeless and very elegant Frua body cuts a good figure everywhere and you are welcome in all specimen presents itself in an honest condition 2 and shows its true age in some places. Whoever wants to have a perfect coupé will have to take care of the paintwork in the medium term. For those who want to drive, this is an honest and faithful companion to conquer the world with.
