1968 Volvo 130 "Amazon" Saloon Registration Number: JTK 231...

Hammer

£9,000

1968 Volvo 130 "Amazon" Saloon

Registration Number: JTK 231G
Chassis Number: 5213
Recorded Mileage: c.56,500 miles

- Single family ownership for 46 years
- Subject to sympathetic restoration in recent years

In 1956, a prototype of a new passenger car from Volvo was released. The car became known as the Amazon in Sweden and badged the 121 and 122S on the export market. Production began in 1957, the car was initially regarded as a larger model than the PV444. The fact that the 121/122 S was a 4-door model naturally contributed to this. The styling was modern, this model was the first car from Volvo with a pontoon body. The Amazon 121/122 S also had a very high safety level with features including a padded upper half of the dashboard, a laminated windscreen and seat belt attachments both front and rear.

In September 1961, yet another version based on the 121/122S was presented, a two door saloon.  The two door version was somewhat lighter; it was also regarded as a sportier version and therefore used in competitions, both within the rallying and motor racing fraternity. To enhance the sporty image of the Amazon, the fast and lavishly equipped 123GT version was introduced in 1966, with the same engine as the 1800S sports car. In 1968, another larger engine version was added to this model, the so-called 2.0 B20 engine. Production of the P130 continued until July 2nd 1970. 

Purchased new in 1968 from Volvo agent Parkway of Dorchester, this UK/RHD Amazon stayed with the same family for a further 46 years. Always dry stored, the Volvo was garaged off the road from the 1990s until more recently being sympathetically restored. The car’s coachwork was deemed sound, only requiring a replacement outrigger and wheel arch, before being refinished in several coats of its original Cherry Red (46) shade. At the same time the engine was removed, checked, converted to unleaded, given a clean bill of health and refitted, and an overdrive unit fitted to the gearbox. The interior is original with the exception of the dashtop and the addition of carpets, so we cleaned and refitted.

Complete with a comprehensive history file containing the original bill of sale and a number of older MOT certificates, this is a very genuine example of one of the most stylish and fuss-free everyday classics you can buy.