Collectors\' Motor Cars and Automobilia

MOTOR CARS | 53

Introduced in 1960 and popularised by The Saint television series,
starring Roger Moore, Volvos pretty P100 sports coupt, although no
hairy-chested tyre-shredder, was nonetheless something of a radical
departure for the sober-sided Swedish concern. Lacking a sports car
in its range, Volvo had started the proQect back in 1957, the man chieÅy
responsible being an engineering consultant, Helmer Petterson, who had
designed Volvos PV444. Carrozzeria Frua built the first three prototypes
and it was intended that Karmann would undertake production, though
this idea was vetoed by Volkswagen, Karmann's biggest customer.

Based on the 121 saloon, the P100 was built initially by Jensen Motors
in West Bromwich and employed Volvos rugged, four-cylinder, overhead-
valve engine in 1,77cc form. Breathing through twin carburettors,
this unit produced 100bhp, an output sufficient to propel the solidly
built coupé to a top speed of around 105mph. The running gear was
conventional, with independent front suspension and live rear axle, and
all versions came with servo-assisted front disc brakes. Production of the
P100 was transferred to Sweden in 193.

A capacity increase to 1,95cc was followed by the adoption of Bosch

electronic fuel inQection in 199 on the P100E. Maximum power

increased to 130bhp, and four-wheel disc brakes were standardised at

the same time. By the end of the 1960s, the model was beginning to

look dated, but the introduction of the Reliant GTE-inÅuenced P100ES

sports estate version extended its lease of life until 1973.

This P100E coupt has been painstakingly restored over the years to

a standard deemed good enough for it to feature in the BBC Television

series 'Celebrity Antiques Road Trip', on which it was co-driven by

journalists Natasha Kaplinsky and Michael Buerk. Finished in its original,

and unusual, blue livery with black leather interior, the car has just been

serviced and MoTd by specialists Templar Wilde of Hedgerley, and

been fitted with a new clutch. The sensible provision of power assisted

steering is the only notified deviation from factory specification. Described

by the private vendor as in generally good condition, this rare sporting

Volvo is offered with sundry restoration invoices, a V5C Registration

Certificate, and a current MoT certificate.

£18,000 - 24,000

€21,000 - 28,000

113

NO LOT

112

1971 VOLVO P1800E COUPÉ

Registration no. DAE 12K

Chassis no. 14352 <37Y32

• Used on the BBC's
  'Celebrity Antiques Road Trip'


• Restored condition


• New clutch


• Power assisted steering