The story of the Volvo P1800 began in 1957. Volvo wanted a sports car to compete in the United States and European markets and Volvo turned to Jensen Motors, whose production lines were under-utilised, and they agreed a contract for 10,000 cars.

The Linwood body plant, manufacturer of Pressed Steel, was in turn sub-contracted by Jensen to create the unibody shells, which were then taken by rail to be assembled at Jensen in West Bromwich. In September 1960, the first production P1800 (for the 1961 model year) left Jensen and soon after this the elegant Coupe was popularised by “The Saint” television series.

As time passed, Jensen had problems with quality control, so the contract was ended early after 6,000 cars had been built. In 1963 production was moved to Volvo’s Lundby Plant in Gothenburg and continued until 1973. The fuel injected P1800 E was introduced in 1970. Powered by a 2 litre 4-cylinder 130bhp engine the P1800 E was capable of 118mph with a 0-60mph of 9.3 seconds.

The Volvo P1800 ES offered here at Autostorico, was first registered on 14th March 1972 and is finished in light Blue metallic with Black leather interior trim. Having covered an indicated 77967 miles, this lovely example was purchased by a Volvo enthusiast in 2006. He undertook a no expense spared restoration carried out by marque specialist CP Motors in Tamworth. Works included stripping the whole body, before a bare metal respray. The car was also subject to a mechanical overhaul. Purchased by its current owner in 2015 it’s been maintained to the highest possible standard with recent works carried out by Templar Classics Ltd.

Supplied for sale with a history file including a current V5 registration document, original brochure, book pack, photographic record of the restoration and numerous invoices.

This stunning P1800 ES should prove to be an astute investment, due to relative scarcity on British roads and distinctive styling.

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