Tag Archives: p1800

Some Vintage Volvos

Exotics@RTC gets a lot of regular attendees so you will often see the same cars week after week.  Getting something a little different is really appreciated.  I have seen some old Volvos at Exotics before but whether it was these or not, I don’t know.  (The modified one has definitely been before but more of that in a second.)

The P1800 is a cool looking car and, if you are old enough and have seen episodes of the original Saint TV show, you will recognize it.  It was partnered with a more sedate vehicle which was also in great condition.  Next to it was one that was a bit more tricked out.  I don’t think carbon fiber was a key element of Volvos in those days and I imagine under the surface, this one has been uprated a touch.  Good to have something a little different amongst the regular vehicles.

Volvo Restoration

AU0E8221.jpgMy recollection of Volvos as a youth was of boxes on wheels. They never struck me as impressive cars and the interiors seemed to match the exteriors in their boxiness. I even have a less than favorable memory of driving a 740 through France overnight to try and make a morning ferry (which we did). It was not always thus. The P1800 was quite a smart looking car and a TV star in the original version of The Saint.

AU0E8222.jpgThis example showed up at Cars and Coffee. It was in excellent condition. Whether it has been kept well or restored beautifully (or even a bit of both) I don’t know but it looked great. It wasn’t the only example around either. However, it did stand out as the one to see. I have no idea what they are like to drive but that wasn’t the point at an event like this.

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