The Volvo Aston P1800 in British Racing Green, model year 1963, was not only the star of last year's Volvo Meeting in Bulle. It also attracted attention in 2022 at the “Classic Car Auction” in Gstaad, during which a Swiss purchased this unique piece. The fact that this car, built in 1963, still exists is almost a miracle and is the fruit of the meticulous work of a true enthusiast.
How it all began
It all began when Swedish designer Pelle Peterson designed an extraordinary sports coupe in 1957 – the Volvo P1800 – which Volvo Cars absolutely wanted to build but was unable to do so for reasons of capacity.
We then looked for a partner with extensive experience in the construction of sports cars and we found him at Jensen Motors in England. Unfortunately, the quality of the British car manufacturer does not match that of Volvo. The first 250 units, assembled at Jensen Motors in England in 1961, were so poorly made that they had to be improved at the Gothenburg factory before delivery. As for Jensen, we deplore the power of the reliable B18 engine, which does not exceed 90 hp.
David Brown's solution
The solution involves an offer from Aston Martin. David Brown, its owner, proposed designing a 2.5-liter four-cylinder version of the legendary DB4 engine, in dimensions adapted to the engine compartment of the Volvo P1800. David Brown delivers as agreed and the 150 hp engines are fitted. This is how three prototypes of the Volvo Aston were created in 1963 at Jensen Motors.
Quality defects of the first Volvo P1800
But, after two years, Volvo Cars ended the collaboration with Jensen Motors due to a series of quality defects and the Volvo Aston project ended there. Construction of the Volvo P1800 is transferred to Sweden. Models built from there have an "S" added for Sverige (Sweden).
Missing
It was long believed that the three Volvo Aston prototypes, engines included, had been scrapped. But in 2003, engine number 3 was discovered and purchased by the Swiss specialist Beat Roos. After extensive research in countless archives, the latter had the Volvo Aston prototype reproduced identically. The total investment exceeds 200,000 francs.
The bodywork is restored and painted in “British Racing Green”, the green leather upholstery is completely redone. Small concessions are made in comfort and safety with high-backed seats from the later P1800 and the fitting of power brakes. The project was completed and presented to the public in 2005.
The exclusive coupe will be auctioned in December 2022 at the Classic Car Auction in Gstaad. It was agreed not to disclose the sale price, but the Volvo Aston is still owned by a Swiss owner.
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