This 1973 Volvo P1800ES is a rare, ex-UK shooting brake which benefits from recent repairs to bodywork and exhaust components. Under the bonnet is a naturally-aspirated 1.8-litre four-cylinder engine which output 93kW (125hp) to the rear wheels. The transmission in this example is a Borg-Warner three-speed automatic. The odometer of the car currently shows 107,232 miles. The Volvo P1800 is a seldom-recognised sports car which carries unmistakeable 1960s styling. It was designed to take on MG, Alfa Romeo, and Jaguar sports cars which were finding considerable success across Europe and in the United States. However, the project almost didn’t take off because Volvo couldn’t find a firm to create the unibody framework – or assemble it.

Volvo’s standards were simply too high for the engineering firms of the day and it ran into conflict-of-interest problems with other car companies. In the end Volvo tapped British carmaker Jensen and its under-utilised production lines, and the first example rolled off the English production line in late 1960. Production later returned to Volvo’s Gothenburg factory. The variant being auctioned by Trading Garage is a shooting brake, which was produced in limited numbers (8077 examples total). It combines impressive fold-flat carrying capabilities with unique styling and a smooth grand-tourer driving experience. This example is painted metallic gold on the outside and selects a black vinyl-upholstered interior. Elements of chrome detailing are seen on the exterior, while the cabin features woodgrain trim inlays.

There are no modifications to speak of on this car and the original paint scheme is retained from new (albeit resprayed). It rides on a set of 15-inch Volvo steel hub caps wrapped in Marshal tyres. Manufactured by Volvo in Gothenburg, Sweden and delivered new to the United Kingdom, this Volvo’s history is documented through word of mouth. No papers come with the car, but the current owner states the vehicle has had six owners overall. The current owner has held the car for 12 months and in that time has had minor rust professionally repaired, replaced brake rotors and calipers, replaced the exhaust, fitted new tyres, and had the car serviced. This car’s exterior condition is impressive considering its age. It was reportedly resprayed 2.

5 years ago, though elements of patina are seen around trims and grilles which highlight the car’s history and character. The Gold metallic paintwork displays in great condition without noticeable imperfection or stone chipping. Grilles and chrome trimwork show more obvious signs of tarnishing and weathering, as expected for the car’s age. Hinges and door handles are beginning to show oxidation. The front bumpers display some subtle imprints, though this car has no accident history according to the owner. Subtle surface scratching is identified on the outer rims of some wheels, though wheel and tyre condition overall is great. Inside the cabin this car has been well preserved and there are minimal signs of degradation or damage.

The vinyl seats keep a good, original shape and no obvious points of tearing are identified. The driver’s side bolster is beginning to crack, however. Carpeting is clean without scuffs or fraying, while the door cards and dash present in similarly undamaged condition. Instrumentation and woodgrain inlays appear in good condition. Some marking is seen on the roof headlining above the rear seats. As per Trading Garage’s Terms and Conditions, although Trading Garage have completed the following checks, bidders must satisfy themselves to the accuracy of the description and do any research, they feel necessary before bidding.All listings are sold in Australian dollars.

This vehicle is currently unregistered. There are no security interests registered on the PPSR against the serial number and it is not recorded as written off or stolen.