1973 Volvo 1800ES Sport Wagon
1973 Volvo 1800 ES SportWagon SOLD
An outstanding example of a unique, original one owner Volvo 1800ES Sport Wagon restored to perfection. Ready for pit, paddock or vintage rallying.
History
Volvo’s P1800 coupe introduced in 1961 was always seen as a departure for the stolid manufacturer of rugged, reliable and safe automobiles. The P1800 coupe was designed by Pelle Petterson, son of Volvo PV 444 designer Helmer Petterson, and the prototype was constructed by Frau in Italy. The car’s front end has been described as Ferrari-like with its large oval grille and single headlamps adding to the P1800’s sporting flair.
P1800s were originally produced for Volvo by Jensen in England. The designation P1800S marked the shift of production to Sweden in 1964, and E (Einspritzung) indicated the introduction of fuel injection in 1970. Throughout their production P1800s were noted for their consistently high build quality.
Mark McCourt described that the P1800 “was getting long in the tooth by the time it entered its second decade.”
“Volvo executives decided to invest a small sum to freshen the product without the expense and tooling of a complete redesign, and in the process created a fresh and stylish sports wagon. The 1800ES was sold alongside the 1800E coupe in 1972 and was the only 1800 variant available in 1973, the model’s last year.”
The redesign was visually successful and placed a legitimate sports wagon in production at a time when many other manufacturers and coachbuilders were exploring the concept with one-off designs. The all-glass rear hatch was a distinctive feature and influenced the current Volvo C30.
The 1800ES also greatly increased the useful luggage capacity for touring, providing up to 28 square feet of carpeted space with the rear seats folded flat. The modifications also improved the car’s weight distribution to a perfect 50/50. Although diminished by emissions-related engine modifications, performance was still 0-60 in 10 seconds with a 116mph top speed. Ideal for spirited motoring with light cargo.
Restoration
The automobile offered is one owner example of this unique and short-lived model. It was restored by Automotive Restorations Inc. in 2003 as original in all aspects. The engine was rebuilt. Brake system, transmission, suspension bushings and shocks were serviced. Various cosmetic improvements were undertaken, including refinishing the engine bay and wet sanding and buffing the exterior finish.
This car has been driven only 6,000 miles since restoration.
Specifications
Chassis: 1836353-004698
Engine: 2.0-liter, B-20 4-cyl., sohc
Engine Number: 82332711
Transmission: 4-speed manual with overdrive
Brakes: front disc/rear drum
Color: red/black
Mileage: 147,656 documented
Market Intelligence
Hemmings Motor News, Feb. 1, 2008
Number built:
3,069 1972
8,077 1973
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