Development of Volvo's P1800 sports coupe began in 1957, led by Helmer Petterson, who was responsible for the groundbreaking PV444 during the 1940s. Petterson's son Pelle, then working with Italy's Frua coachworks, penned the P1800's smoothly contoured body style. Frua produced three prototypes for Volvo, and then the P1800 debuted in coupe-only form for 1960. The UK's Jensen assembled the P1800 bodies in West Bromwich from kits provided by the Pressed Steel Company until 1964, when Volvo took over production in expanded Swedish facilities. The basic mechanical components for the P1800 were largely sourced from Volvo's 120-series cars, including the OHV inline four-cylinder engine, upsized to 2.0 liters by 1968, and a four-speed manual gearbox, plus sophisticated underpinnings.   
 
Soon after its introduction, the P1800 gained fame, beginning in 1962 as the on-screen car driven by Roger Moore's suave leading character, Simon Templar, in TV's The Saint. A corresponding uptrend in P1800 sales resulted. In characteristic Volvo fashion, the P1800 was carefully developed, refined, and improved throughout production, which eventually ended with the P1800 ES in 1973. Despite Volvo's longstanding emphasis on practicality, safety, and vault-like solidity, the P1800 provided a distinctive Grand Touring experience, and it quickly gathered an enthusiastic following that continues stronger than ever today.
 
Offered in outstanding condition throughout, this 1968 Volvo 1800 is understood to have been a solid example before its restoration. As offered for sale, it is excellent and ready to show or tour as desired. Finished in White, just like the famed TV cars driven by Simon Templar as portrayed by Roger Moore in The Saint, this P1800 is complemented by a Red leather interior with matching carpets. The durable 2.0L inline 4-cylinder engine is paired with a 4-speed manual gearbox. Desirable features and amenities include air conditioning and a radio. Only approximately 53,000 miles are accumulated from new.
 
Capable of huge mileage with regular maintenance, unlike many other classic sports and Grand Touring cars, the Volvo P1800 delivers a unique experience with its legendary durability and reliability, not to mention its exotic good looks and robust performance. Handsomely styled and well restored, this 1968 Volvo P1800 offers the rare opportunity to acquire, own, show, and above all enjoy one of these distinctive and sophisticated Swedish road cars. Contact us today to see it for yourself and make it yours!