Volvo P1800

Volvo P 1800

When Volvo was designing this masterpiece I don't think they had a super spy car in mind. This car project was started in 1957 and finally finish by Helmer Petterson the man responsible for the PV444.  Petterson's son Pelle designed the car and worked for the Italian Carrozzeria Pietro Frua design firm. The prototype rolled out in 1957 and 1958.

 After several attempts at production Petterson finally secured financial backing to complete the P 1800. In January 1960 Volvo presented this car to the public at the Brussels Auto Show.
In Sept. 1960 the P1800 hit the assembly line.
The B18 engine (1800 cc) with dual carbs was used and produced 110 hp. This engine had 5 main crankshaft bearings and a M40 manual gearbox. A home run right off the bat Volvo the P 1800 had style and class and everyone took notice.

In 1962 a white P 1800 was chosen for the TV Show The Saint staring Roger Moore. Mr. Moore was so pleased with the car that he purchased one for himself. The P 1800 was chosen over the Jaguar E-Type for its unique style and it was innovative.
Production for this car was from 1961-1973
Assembly was done in West Bromwich, England
1963-1973 assembly was done in Sweden
Engines: 1800cc and 1986 cc
Available in 4 speed manual,3 speed automatic.

A 1966 P 1800 was brought back to light when the owner reported that the sports car had reached the 1 million mile mark in 1987. In 2002 Jay Leno invited the owner and his P 1800 on the show to celebrate the 2 million mile mark. The car is still running and is at just under 3 million miles.

I had my chance to finally see one of these magnificent sports cars about 6 months ago and I must say it sparks the imagination to exactly what is possible when designing a car. Style and elegance but yet you feel the car is racing while standing still.