For more than 90 years of existence, Volvo has been manufacturing some of the most advanced and safest cars on the market. However, what is the best car ever made by Volvo?
The Volvo P1800 is the best car ever made by Volvo. This sports car which was marketed as a grand tourer was sleek and handsome. It wasn’t as fast as other sports cars of that time, but it was among the finest, safest, and coolest cars of its era.
What’s more, the Volvo P1800 sports car had three variants; P1800, P1800S, P1800E, and P18000ES. The most powerful variant was the P1800ES. Other notable Volvo cars ever made include Volvo PV544, Volvo 240, Volvo 242 GT, Volvo 780, Volvo S60, and Volvo XC90.
The history of the Volvo P1800
Made in 1961, the Volvo P1800 debuted at the Geneva Motor Show. Besides, this classic Volvo was made under contract by United-Kingdom-based Jensen Motors after Jaguar refused to provide an E-Type for an upcoming television show in the UK. On the contrary, the body of the car was made by Pressed Steel.
The Television series, known as the Saint’s, which run from 1962 to 1969 with the lead character, Simon Templar (Roger Moore), made this car even more popular. Not only did he feature the car in the show, but as well as he drove the 1967 P1800. This made the car even more famous.
Even though the Volvo P1800 was first manufactured in the UK, the production was transferred to Sweden two years later. On top of that, the body was also made in Sweden. The Assembly took place in Goteborg and Lundbyverken. While body production was transferred to Olofstromsverken.
However, production of the P1800 came to an end in 1973 with the P1800ES being the last model to be produced. This model had an all-glass tailgate, a folding rear seat, and an extended roofline. Besides, this amazing trim also had an additional storing pace than the previous trims.
Features of the Volvo P1800
The Volvo P1800 coupe had an elegant and appealing Italian look. Additionally, it was based on the Classic Volvo 121/122S platform. However, this famed car came with a shorter wheelbase and rear-wheel-drive system.
It was equipped with a 1.8-liter, 4-cylinder engine with an excellent output of 100 bhp. However, this was later improved on as it delivered 108, then 115, and later on 120 bhp. But in 1968, an improved 2.0-liter engine was developed and it delivered up to 118 bhp.
What’s more, it had different transmissions in different trims, which included 4-speed manual transmission, 4-speed manual with overdrive, or 3-speed automatic transmission. All of these had floor-mounted gear levers.
When it comes to design and interior, the Volvo P1800 had an Italian design with a gradually sloping roofline, subtle tail fins, egg-crate grille, accent lines, rearward opening hood, and fenders. And aluminum alloys. However, the latest trims had more advanced features such as four-wheel disc brakes, improved ventilation, a three-speed automatic, and a matter-black grille.
In terms of performance, it was average, making other sports cars of that time outdo it in this category. Overall, it was a nice and sleek car that appealed to sports car fans. Surprisingly, the 1966 Volvo P1800S holds the Guinness World Record for the car with the highest mileage. It has over 3-million miles.
At the moment, this vintage Volvo P1800 can be found on eBay and in several auctions. The 2pass, 2-door coupe goes for about $500,000, making it one of the most expensive classic cars. Note that the price can vary depending on the location and condition of the car.
FAQ
What is the most popular Volvo?
The most popular Volvo model is the Volvo XC90. This car leads in sale volume but it’s also well-built and spacious. Nonetheless, there are serious competitors, such as the XC40 and XC60. But with excellent fuel economy and high-tech features, it’s easy to see why the XC90 is still the most popular Volvo model.
What is the fastest Volvo ever made?
The fastest Volvo car ever made is the S60 T8 Polestar. It is also the first-ever entirely battery-powered Volvo car. Polestar is the performance version brand of Volvo. This plug-in hybrid comes with a turbo four-cylinder engine with 314 bhp that is topped up by an electric motor for a total of 400 bhp.
Additionally, this sedan accelerates faster than any other Volvo model on the market. It can sprint from 0 to 60 mph in just 4.4 seconds.
What is the most reliable Volvo?
The most reliable Volvo on the market is the Volvo S60. Yes, most Volvos are reliable, but the Volvo S60 sedan is the most reliable Volvo model. But if you’re looking for the most reliable Volvo model, that title goes to the Volvo XC90 SUV. The Volvo S60 comes with the finest Volvo engine.
Does Volvo make electric cars?
Yes, Volvo has an all-electric car. Volvo’s fully electric car is the XC40 Recharge. This is just one of the several vehicles that Volvo intends to make. Volvo committed itself to include an electric motor in every car it makes from 2019. The XC40 Recharge is a compact SUV with advanced features.
Why isn’t Volvo as popular as Mercedes, BMW, or Audi?
Volvo is not as popular as any of the main German luxury car brands because of its marketing strategy. Volvo markets its car as safe, which is a niche market, while German cars market themselves on performance, comfort, styling, and technology. These are more appealing than Volvo’s strategy.
Besides, most German luxury cars come with more advanced features than Volvo. Additionally, they offer a variety of car makes and models, which Volvo wasn’t doing in the past. However, Volvo has also diversified and may start to give them a run for their money.
Summary
Volvo has had several vintage cars over the years, but the best car ever made by Volvo is the Volvo P1800. This sports coupe 2×2 car is not only elegant and safe, but it’s among the most famous cars of all time. The car comes in four different trims and is performed averagely.
The Volvo P1800 started production in 1961 but was discontinued in 1973. However, there are several models on sale today and they will cost you thousands of dollars to get one. In 2021, the Volvo P1800 will be celebrating its 60th anniversary.
