I will honestly raise my hand and admit that I was never a fan of Volvos. I saw them as staid and boring cars from a company that traded more on its safety credentials than its performance prowess. This view was borne out of ignorance because once I’d sampled a couple, I realized there is more to these classics than meets the eye. A perfect example of the company’s unusual approach to product development is the 1800S. This model nearly didn’t happen, and when it did finally appear, it was plagued by quality control issues beyond the company’s control. Volvo brought the entire program in-house in 1963, and the 1800, in various forms, continued rolling off the line until 1973. This 1966 1800S shows promise as a project candidate at first glance, although scrutinizing the photos suggests it might harbor a hidden secret. That possibility hasn’t dampened enthusiasm since the seller listed it here on eBay in Berlin, Maryland. Bidding has raced to $5,100, which falls short of the reserve.

The story of the 1800 is quite convoluted, with the first hand-built prototype appearing in 1957. Ongoing development meant the car was ready for production by late 1958, but Volvo realized it lacked the expertise to build a sports car. It approached several companies to act as external construction contractors and was on the verge of signing a contract with Karmann when fate stepped in. Volkswagen was Karmann’s largest customer, and they didn’t look kindly upon it churning out a vehicle that directly competed with its Ghia model. All seemed lost until Jensen stepped up to the plate. Volvo felt confident that its history of sports car production would make it an ideal partner in the venture. Unfortunately, that confidence was misplaced because Jensen’s quality control issues and antiquated production techniques meant that between the 1961 launch and 1963, when Volvo brought production in-house, only 6,000 examples of the P1800 were built, and not particularly well. When Volvo assumed total control, the model designation changed from P1800 to 1800S, denoting that the cars were now built in Sweden. This 1800S rolled off the line in 1966, with its original owner ordering it in Pearl White. It makes a positive first impression, with no evidence of significant panel bumps or bruises. A closer inspection reveals it might hold some surprises for its new owner, which may not be pleasant. Rust is developing in the rear valance, and the seller admits to small holes in the hood. However, they might be the tip of the iceberg. There is evidence of repairs and filler in the front rocker on the passenger side, which is worrying. This is a known weak spot in the Volvo’s body, and because the area is triple-skinned and crucial for structural integrity, repairs must be performed to a high standard. The rough appearance of the visible repairs doesn’t fill me with confidence. Similar problems appear to be developing on the driver’s side, leading me to suggest that an in-person inspection is warranted. Some trim pieces require restoration, and the windshield must be replaced or polished to remove visible wiper marks, but the Minilite wheels help to emphasize the car’s sporting credentials.

The drivetrain combination Volvo chose to power the 1800S doesn’t sound exciting, but these cars can pack a surprise. Its engine bay houses a 1,778cc “B18” four-cylinder motor that sends 115hp and 112 ft/lbs of torque to the rear wheels via a four-speed M41 manual transmission with the optional Laycock de Normanville overdrive unit. Everything sounds modest, but with the 1800S tipping the scales at only 2,491 lbs, performance is far better than most people might expect. It is also worth noting that the B18 is one of the hardiest engines you will find, and they still see regular service in domestic rally competition over five decades after the company produced the last one. The seller indicates this 1800S runs and drives, but potential buyers shouldn’t consider it roadworthy. The brakes require attention, while a total inspection and comprehensive service and tune-up should be anticipated before it returns to its rightful place on our roads.

The news becomes more favorable when we turn our attention to this Volvo’s interior, although it still requires a degree of love to present at its best. The seller cleaned the gauge faces and glass, which are now in as-new condition. The dash is tidy, the pad is crack-free, and there is no ripped or torn upholstery. The beautiful Mahogany wheel and matching AMCO shifter knob add a touch of restrained class, and apart from the heater, are the only luxury appointments inside this classic. Okay, now for the tasks awaiting the winning bidder. The carpet fit is poor, especially around the driver’s feet. Addressing this shortcoming should only cost time as the new owner adjusts and tweaks it for a better fit. The front seats feature new covers, but the fit looks quite “baggy.” Removing and refitting the covers might produce a better result, although budgeting for new foam might be wise.

The 1966 Volvo 1800S is one of the unsung heroes of automotive history because it demonstrates that Volvo possessed sporting credentials before cars like the 850R rolled off the line. I want to genuinely like this one, and I want a new owner to return it to its former glory and rightful place on our roads. Would I buy it? That’s a tough one to answer, but I wouldn’t commit either way before undertaking a thorough inspection. The visible repairs in the rockers ring alarm bells, and I would want to clarify the situation to ensure I wasn’t biting off more than I could chew. That hasn’t dampened enthusiasm, with twenty-four bids submitted at the time of writing. Could you be tempted, or are there too many questions for your liking?