“A lot of potential and a strong foundation for restoration,” proclaims the seller of this 1961 Volvo P1800. It’s a barn find, equipped with all the trimmings, and some parts accompany it, but not all of the parts shown – which exact ones aren’t clear. Alright, let’s take a closer look and see what’s here. We can thank Zappenduster for this find; it’s located in Mondovi, Wisconsin, and is available here on Facebook Marketplace for $7,500.
I will admit I’m not exactly an ardent Volvo fan, but I’ve always had a thing for the 1800 in all its trim levels and body styles. Offered between 1961 and 1973, the P1800, later known as the 1800S, E, and ES, saw duty as a two-door coupe and station wagon, often referred to as a “shooting brake”. Total production reached about 47,000 units, with the majority being the coupe variety. Parked for twenty years, the seller tells us, “There is body damage on the rear left with a small amount of surface rust near the dent, but otherwise the car is solid with no significant rust issues known. Floors, structure, and trim are intact, making this a good starting point compared to many projects.” The exterior images are greatly limited, so there’s little visual evidence of this car’s true condition. The seller also states, “all original components are included with the car. Items on the ground next to the car are not included.” I’m not exactly sure what all that stuff on the ground is, looks like some trim rings maybe?
The 100 hp, 1,800 CC, in-line four-cylinder engine is said to “turn freely” and is not locked up, though the radiator is in the trunk, so this one’s a non-runner. Driving the rear wheels is a four-speed manual transmission, and it is supposed to still be in place. It’s not clear what the engine will require to return to operating status, assuming that it’s possible as it sits.
The interior has been reduced to strictly a storage area. The instrument panel looks OK, and the seats are present, but the environment’s overall condition leaves a lot to be desired. As previously stated, the floors are claimed to be “intact“.
As I researched Volvo 1800’s, I was surprised to learn that guitar great Duane Allman of Allman Bros. Band fame owned a 1970 1800E that he purchased with royalties earned from his work on the Derek and the Dominoes “Layla” album. Well, lo and behold, I found an image of his car, discovered in Alabama in 2007. Allman was killed in a motorcycle crash in late ’71, so it would be interesting to know a bit about this car’s past. Obviously, the years haven’t been too kind to it.
OK, let’s cut to the chase. These are cool, well-engineered cars, and I imagine owning and driving one would be a satisfying and enjoyable experience. But $7,500 for this crubbage covered partsmobile? I’m not feelin’ it, how about you?
Been sitting close to 20 years, and posted 29 weeks ago.