Finding TV fame as The Saint's car of choice, the P1800 is possibly one of the most un-Volvo-like Volvos there has ever been. The sleek design and powerful engines made this more of a sports car than it did an estate like brick.
Over the years the P1800 has come into its own with people appreciating its beautiful lines and great performance. This example could do with a bit of work but with a full shell, engine still in place, and ability to roll freely, it is a great starting point. Aw6vqB4oXCNK4klwDmJGpM9Vtmv8wDue7Mo9asnm.jpeg1.93 MB
The History and Paperwork
The history of this P1800 is a little difficult to track
We know that it left the factory in 1968, and was first registered for road use in January of 1969
Looking at the online records, the car has been un-taxed since 1989 which is possible when it was last on the roads
It came into the current family ownership around the late 90s/early 00s
Bought with the full intention to turn it into the family best Sunday car it was never quite restored
There are memories of it driving around the family yard, and it last ran about 4-5 years ago
When not in use it has been stored in a dry garage which has preserved the bodywork well
Recently the tyres were inflated and it rolled out of its storage facility
It was also demonstrated that the engine is not seized as the crankshaft pulley moved with some resistance, as it should
You’ll find a lot of spare parts in the boot
There isn’t a V5 present, so you will have to apply for a new one
With some elbow grease in your garage over the winter, this P1800 will roll out in spring looking show quality
The interior of this P1800 may at first look like a daunting task, but it shouldn’t be as difficult to revive as you think it is. From front to back, the original trim appears to all be in place which will provide you with an excellent opportunity.
To complement the deep black exterior the interior is finished in lovely red leather. The rear bench seat still looks in good condition, with a good clean up it could be nearly done already. In comparison, the front seats could do with a little work. The driver’s seat does present with a tear in the leather, but, as it's still there you can remove it and use it as a template for the new material, this is the same for the front passenger seat as well.
Interestingly, as it’s been stored in a dry environment, the headliner is still in place. Once again, a quick session with some fabric cleaner may bring this back to life nicely without the need to replace the entire section. You’ll also see that there is a sunroof up there as well, perfect for those summertime drives.
You may need to do some work, but once you have all of them back together it’ll look like as good as new. At this point, you can get in and take it on some memorable excursions with your family and friends in tow. This interior has the potential to be amazing, and this is your opportunity to make a P1800 interior to your tastes.
Unlike other Volvos, the P1800 has beautiful sweeping lines that have made this classic into one of the best looking out there. With a bit of work, you could have a Concours condition car to take to some of the best shows as spring rolls around.
Looking down the lines of this P1800 you may find a few small dings but what more do you expect from a 50 year old car? There is a little dent around the radiator vent/grille area so this may need to be pulled out, and a new grille will need to be sourced too as this is about the only piece of trim that has gone walkies in the past twenty years.
Although only the headlights are in place, there is a box of lights in the boot that should hopefully make fit all of the voids currently present.
Taking a peak underneath, the car it appears to be in good condition with the usual surface corrosion. It does also look as If the exhaust may have been changed at some point as it looks very shiny indeed. It’s not only lights in the boot, but there are also some chrome flashes that look like they’ll go over the rear fins.
Over the winter months, this will be a great project to sink your teeth into. When the show season rolls around again you can attend in your newly restored and beautiful Volvo P1800.
Under the bonnet you’ll find a 2.0l petrol engine that will propel this classic down the road nicely, this is then mated to a manual gearbox.
The mechanical condition of this car is tricky to comment on wholly. It is currently a non-runner, but this shouldn’t be too much of a worry. With the internal combustion engine being around for so long you’ll easily find a specialist who can give it a once over. The engine was shown to turn freely on the day of the photoshoot, so it isn’t seized.
Before the photos, the tyres had been inflated and miraculously held air as they should. This then made it really easy to push into position for the photos to be taken.
With a bit of work, you should have a great and pokey classic car, you’ll remember every moment you spend driving this car. There is nothing like a drive out in the evening as the sun sets with the sunroof open, grab your driving gloves and get out on the road with this great classic.
What you have here is a wonderful opportunity. You can be picking up an excellent project that will bring you tons of happiness in the future. Not only will you have the chance to bring a classic back to life, but you will have the chance to make it yours. Change the interior, change the colour, or give it some more power. It’s down to you, this is your dream.
Don’t miss out on this chance to make your own classic on a solid base.
NNotice to bidders
This item is sold on an ‘As is Where is’ basis. The condition of this item is the opinion of the seller and may differ from your own opinion. Photos and listing descriptions are for guidance purposes only*.** Car & Classic do not warrant listing accuracy. Full inspection is recommended. Viewings are at the seller’s discretion. Buyer is responsible for delivery and collection of any item purchased.
A non-refundable buyer’s deposit is payable on this item, refer to FAQs and T&Cs for the applicable percentage.
