[studebaker]

Hi Guys--
My son and I are starting to look for a P1800 as he has owned several american cars but is really attracted to Volvo styling. Prefer a standard shift. What do we need to look or watch out for on these models? Are the later fuel injected models preferred over the carb models?
We have done total restorations on several cars, Mustangs, Camaros, Studebakers and now working on a 37 Hudson Terraplane PU --- some combination !
Thanks for your advice!

 

[BHart]

The 1800 is a rare car. There were almost 47,000 made between 1961 and 1973, so that less than 5000/year production. The ES 'wagon' was only made in the last two years so they are rarer still.

Mechanically they are Volvos. Most engine/driveline/brake parts are common to 122s and 140s. That stuff is simple, it's the trim, glass and small bits that are unique to 1800s and are, in some cases, impossible to find.

They do rust. Commom areas are over the rear wheels, floors by the jacking points, the side walls under the hood above the front inner fenders (large captive area), Most of these areas have replacement steel available, but it's tedious to fix with all the double walled areas. There is support for these cars. Clubs and shops that have parts.

They suffer from undervaluation because of their marque. It would cost the same to resore a Jaguar E-type, Austin Healy 3000 or Volvo 1800 but the end result value would be considerably less in the Volvo's case. Still a beautiful car that most people cannot recognize, and are always surprised to find that it's a Volvo.

Buy the best car you can afford. Maybe an older restoration that could use some TLC or a project someone has given up on.

 

[BHart]

Here's some links;

Volvo P1800 club of Sweden

Startpage

VP Autoparts (prices are in Swedish Kroner !!)

Volvo Club Volvo Sports America VSA

Volvo 1800 Information

 

[studebaker]

Here's some links;

Volvo P1800 club of Sweden

Startpage

VP Autoparts (prices are in Swedish Kroner !!)

Volvo Club Volvo Sports America VSA

Volvo 1800 Information

BHart,
I pm'ed you but it doesn't show up in my "sent" box. Did you receive it?
Studebaker

 

[BHart]

The list he's got of work done is impressive. Steering, exhaust, etc. Cosmetically it looks good, but then everything looks good on e-bay.

Here's some areas to check.













http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=140364026159&viewitem=&sspagename=ADME%3AB%3ASS%3AUS%3A1123

 

[aquasition]

Follow the advise above and buy the best car you can afford.
I bougth a 72 E coupe in excellent condition from a fellow enthusiast in RI, and I paid quite a bit for it, but it is ready to be enjoyed everyday.
If you enjoy restoring a car, and don't really care for how much $$ you will spend, then go ahead and purchase a project car. Otherwise buy the best you can find.
Other than rust, only issue is overheating if an electric fan was fitted instead of the original viscous clutch belt driven fan.
Great looking cars. You could easily attach a "Ferrari" badge on it, and nobody would doubt it is one...
Cheers.

 

[BHart]

Could work...





But then you'd have to call it a Volari,

and that sounds almost like something Chrysler and the rest of us want to forget.

 

[studebaker]

Yes, I know "everything looks good on E-bay, been there- done that.
Thanks for the advice!! Believe you me, I know about project cars -- not looking for another one! We are trying to learn all about these volvo's and their issues, good or bad. I certainly want to make an informed decision.
I don't mind having to do minor body and paint work, just don't want another restoration job at this point in my life. Just finishing up a 55 Studebaker sedan and in the beginning stages of doing a 37 Hudson Terraplane PU -- so no, I don't need any more "projects"!

 

[studebaker]

Oh, another question -- do you know if the "Minilite wheels are available? Great looking wheel for this body style.

 

[BHart]

The Brits keep their heritage alive;
Minilite

 

[studebaker]

The list he's got of work done is impressive. Steering, exhaust, etc. Cosmetically it looks good, but then everything looks good on e-bay.

Here's some areas to check.














Volvo : Volvo:eBay Motors (item 140364026159 end time Dec-05-09 13:20:06 PST)

Owners response to picture questions -
In response to your questions about P1800

Photo 1 Upon close inspection, I have discovered paint bubbling in
areas next to indicators but not under signals
Top of cowl is clean & rust free
Splash panel is intact & appears to be rust free

Photo 2 There is minor rust on door bottom & at rocker panel seam

Photo 3 No rust issues under hood

Photo 4 Recent appearing bubble on rocker, jacking pts. are solid ,
bubble is not soft

Photo 5 Any rust repair was done prior to my ownership. Receipts show
work was 1999-2000
Repair panels available from Don Thibault in MA email
[email protected]

Photo 6 No rust under carpet, Factory rustproofing, undercoating intact

 

[BHart]

Sounds promising.

Is it close enough to go have a look for yourself before bidding ends?

 

[studebaker]

8 hour trip one way.

 

[studebaker]

Here is another one --
1967 Volvo 1800 S, 99409 miles