Tired of cramming your golf clubs crosswise into your British roadster? Can’t fit those 2x4s into the Karmann Ghia? Here’s the answer: Volvo’s sporty 1800ES. Produced for only two years in 1972 and ’73, just 8077 were made. The advent of more stringent safety and emissions regulations killed the entire 1800 project – the sport coupe had already ended production in 1972. This spiffy Volvo 1800 wagon is being sold from an estate after at least five years of ownership. It is noted as a “modified” vehicle with allusion to a repaint. Find it here on eBay with bidding at $6600 and a $15,000 buy-it-now price. It is located in Henderson, Nevada.

The 1800’s engine evolution began with the B18 – a robust, 1.8-liter carburetted four-cylinder. Later versions of the B18 were fitted with twin SUs. Compression ratios rose, then fell as emissions controls bit into performance. By the time the wagon arrived, Volvo had bored out the B18 to 2.0 liters and introduced Bosch fuel injection. For US delivery, the engine was detuned via a lower compression ratio. Output declined several hp to 112; torque was off as well. The wagon’s extra weight combined with the engine’s lower output was disappointing to the automotive press. Too, the wagon had a higher center of gravity than the coupe, but wore its same suspension; body roll was notable. This car is equipped with the optional Borg-Warner automatic.

Volvo redesigned the 1800’s interior with faux woodgrain dash trim in 1970, and the door panels and seats in 1972. The ES seats are decently supportive and incorporate a headrest. There’s no glove box – instead, a locking cubby is supplied, situated in the console. While interior ventilation was improved, drivers complained that it remained inadequate. Steering is on the heavy side, and the automatic gearbox has a reputation for graceless shifts. Today, we forgive the wagon its foibles, but in the competitive landscape of the time, the ES was a crude entry. This example’s cabin is in average condition, requiring repair to the rear seats and an application of rug cleaner to the cargo area.

The distinctive, frameless, edge-to-edge rear glass inspired Volvo’s own designers later on, but as a practicality, it also enhanced visibility out of the cabin – something the coupe lacked. This 1800ES has a few exterior faults – a minor dent here, damaged trim there – but overall it’s in good driver condition. Prices for both the coupe and the wagon have increased substantially as ever more buyers chase a limited number of good quality examples. Last year, a restored ES sold for $70k. This nice blue ’73 sold for $50k a few months ago. Granted, most examples sell for much less, but the trend is clear: the 1800ES is gaining favor with collectors.