1971 Volvo P1800E Coupé Project
Registration no. TBK 124K (see text)
Chassis no. 37554

Introduced in 1960 and popularised by The Saint television series, starring Roger Moore, Volvo's pretty P1800 sports coupé, although no hairy-chested tyre-shredder, was nonetheless something of a radical departure for the sober-sided Swedish concern. Based on the 121 saloon, the P1800 was built initially by Jensen Motors in West Bromwich and employed Volvo's rugged, four-cylinder, overhead-valve engine in 1,778cc form. Breathing through twin carburettors, this unit produced 100bhp, an output sufficient to propel the solidly built coupé to a top speed of around 105mph. The running gear was conventional, with independent front suspension and live rear axle, and all versions came with servo-assisted front disc brakes. Production transferred to Sweden in 1963. A capacity increase to 1,985cc was followed by the adoption of Bosch electronic fuel injection in 1969 on the P1800E. Maximum power increased to 130bhp, and four-wheel disc brakes were standardised at the same time.

This P1800E coupé was purchased in 1973 from North Wales Car Centre (invoice available). There is no registration document, but the car comes with a DoT note stating that the registration book has been retained (April 1976). The last MoT certificate expired in 1980, and there is an estimate on file for work to be done in 1974. Offered for restoration and sold strictly as viewed, this vehicle is in poor condition, although restorable, and comes with its seats and bumpers (removed for security).