Volvo P1800E, 1971
34,000 original miles, stored for many years
A local collector purchased this car after many years in storage, sent it to a Volvo Specialist in Maine during 2007, and spent nearly $11,000 on EVERYTHING necessary to have a first rate car. Driven for a year (note last inspection sticker, valid through March of 2009), contracted Lyme disease, couldn't drive, and AGAIN, stored in his garage. Recently awakened and prepared.
Fresh oil and filter, fuel tank and fuel system drained and cleaned, new tires, new battery, one new wheel cylinder, brakes and suspension checked (most things were 'as new'), exterior wet sanded and buffed to a show finish, beautiful original interior...all excellent....carpets, leather seats, headliner, dash top, door panels, rear deck carpeting, it is really like going back in time.
Starts instantly, runs flawlessly, no clutch chatter of slippage, excellent 'hands off' directional stability, brakes are excellent (power assist, four wheel disc brakes), no rattles, perfect seam gaps, excellent original wiring, 4 speed transmission has perfect synchromesh, the later J Type overdrive clicks in and out instantly, runs 70+ psi oil pressure when hot and on the highway, zero smoke cold or hot, perfect rubber windshield and back window rubbers and compression strips, all gauges work properly, has a working stereo, spotless trunk with original spare tire cover, chrome is excellent except for one small area on a front bumper (barely noticeable) and even the bumper rubbers are perfect.
Exhaust is quiet, no leaks of any kind, heater is super powerful and all controls work properly, even the wipers and washers work.
These are really fabulous cars that combine true classic style with performance comparable to a contemporary car. After all, the world record holder in mileage is a P1800 on Long Island with over 3,000,000 miles from the sane owner.
From my experience, not only are these cars incredibly reliable but parts are readily available and one can easily think of using this car as daily transportation. And yes, a/c using a modern rotary compressor is available and easily installed.
As the car sits, I would have no qualms about driving from Connecticut to California. Considering the condition, the extensive work done a couple of thousand miles ago, and the prep work I had professionally done, it doesn't miss a beat. Even such small items as the low oil pressure warning light, high beam light, handbrake light all work and it looks and feels like a car no more than a couple of years old.
Available for immediate sale.
Car available for immediate sale and advertised elsewhere. Hence we reserve the right to end the auction at any time and for any reason. Car is sold ‘as is’ with no warranty or guarantee whatsoever. Has full paperwork for legal registration anywhere. We can assist in transport anywhere in the world and can deliver it on our truck within, say, 300 miles. Glad to store the car in a safe, insured spot until arrangements are made. Terms: 20% deposit with 48 hours and full payment within seven days. W/transfer or check is fine. If you have any questions, the best way to ask is to call me at 203-377-6746 during business hours (EST).