1971 Volvo P1800E

Description

Believe it or not, Volvo actually built a sporting 2+2 that was a fantastic car. This 1971 Volvo P1800E was the automaker's first foray into the world of sports cars, launched in 1961, and destined for greatness. Today, late versions like this fuel-injected model are highly prized by collectors and might be a smart place to park some cash for the future.

With styling that's the exact opposite of the boxy forms we've come to expect from Volvo, the P1800E is a great-looking car. The swoopy roofline, the abbreviated fins, and the Maserati-like front end all get onlookers to scratch their heads and ask, "What is that?" It's gorgeous, that's what it is! Wearing bright turquoise blue metallic paint, it has the right look for the swinging '60s and early '70s, and even though the paint was done some years ago, it's holding up well. Volvo's build quality was beyond reproach, even in 1971, and it's held up well over the years, showing some light signs of use but nothing major. There's enough chrome to make it look upscale and that little slash that bends up from the side trim and into the tail fin is a great detail. It has a correct front bumper/grille guard, nice chrome, and weather seals that are holding up well. Someone has really been taking good care of this car!

The interior is pure 1970s 2+2 with cloth-faced buckets up front and a tiny back seat that's best used as a package shelf or for children. The big steering wheel with three spokes is Volvo-funky but the gauges are laid out in grand fashion in a wood dash. The 4-speed manual transmission snaps through the gears with ease, and there's a Laycock overdrive that makes it a grand touring machine that eats up the miles effortlessly. A row of sensible round knobs manages the secondary controls and there's a period AM/FM radio way over there by the passenger. The front seats have been reupholstered in cloth, which is a bit more comfortable than the original vinyl, while the back seat appears to be original. Door panels are in excellent condition as well and everything seems to work the way it should. There's not much of a trunk, but it does include a full-sized spare and original mats.

The 1.8 liter inline-4 was equipped with Bosch fuel injection in 1970, raising power to 130 and dramatically improving drivability. It starts easily and idles well and thanks to a light curb weight, it zips around like a genuine sports car. The engine appears to be the car's original powerplant and it's been properly maintained with newer plugs, wires, hoses, and sensors. We have a detailed maintenance log dating back to 79,000 miles (it's about 144,000 today, which isn't a concern with a Volvo) so you know it's been loved. It barks through a great-sounding single exhaust system and with power disc brakes it's confident under all conditions. The underside is a little dirty, but it's all on the surface and there's just no sign that this car has ever been rusty or wrecked, so it's ready to enjoy without a lot of extra work. Handsome alloy wheels are unique to these cars and carry 165R15 Firestone radials.

This is a car to watch, because they're only going to get more valuable from here. With a little TLC, this could be an excellent example, but it's already the right car to own if you love to drive. Call today!