Volvo : P1800

Model Introduction

The Volvo P1800, launched in 1961, was a stylish coupé designed to give the brand a sporting image, its sleek body styled by Pelle Petterson at Frua under Pietro Frua’s supervision. Built initially by Jensen in the UK before production moved to Sweden, it used proven Amazon underpinnings and a robust four-cylinder engine, making it more durable than many rivals. Fame came through its starring role in *The Saint* TV series with Roger Moore, which cemented its status as a design icon. In 1972 the range was joined by the 1800ES, a striking “shooting brake” estate variant with a distinctive all-glass tailgate. Combining practicality with the coupé’s elegance, the ES helped extend the model’s appeal until production ended in 1973, and both versions are now among the most collectible classic Volvos.