As you step into the world of Volvo P1800, you’re spoiled for choice – but beware, not all are created equal. Like a fine wine, the best years of this iconic model have aged to perfection, offering a smooth ride and robust performance.
But, on the flip side, the worst years are like a sour grape, leaving a bitter taste of poor design and shoddy build quality. So, what sets the best apart from the rest?
Quick Navigation
Key Takeaways
- The last Volvo 1800E and 1800ES models are considered the most comfortable and desirable, making them the best years.
- Models with rust or bodywork damage can be costly to repair, making them the worst years to purchase.
- A well-maintained engine is crucial for peak performance and a smooth ride, making it a key factor in determining the best years.
- Transmission issues, such as unusual noises or signs of wear, can detract from the overall appeal, making them the worst years.
- Regular checks and maintenance, such as inspecting the bodywork and suspension, can prevent costly repairs and make a model a better purchase.
Pre-Purchase Considerations
When considering the purchase of a Volvo P1800, it’s essential to weigh your priorities and define your goals.
Will you use it as a daily driver or a weekend cruiser? Determine your budget and decide how much work you’re willing to put in.
Make sure the interior, including the steering wheel, meets your comfort standards.
Look for a model in good condition, and consider the last Volvo 1800E and 1800ES for the most comfort.
Your intentions will guide your search, so clarify them before starting your hunt for the perfect P1800.
Bodywork and Chassis
You’ll want to inspect the bodywork and chassis of your potential P1800 purchase, as these areas can be prone to rust and damage. Check for signs of corrosion on the front wings, and wheel arches. Look for worn-out ball joints, which can affect the car’s handling.
| Area to Inspect | What to Look For |
|---|---|
| Front Wings | Rust, dents, or signs of repair |
| Wheel Arches | Rust, corrosion, or damaged liners |
| Chassis | Rust, damage, or signs of previous repairs |
| Ball Joints | Wear, play, or signs of replacement |
Engine and Performance
Having inspected the bodywork and chassis, your attention now shifts to the heart of the P1800: its engine and performance.
As a classic car enthusiast, you know that a well-maintained B18 or B20 engine is essential for a smooth ride.
Check for blue gases from the exhaust, which indicate worn-out pistons or excessive oil consumption.
Perform a compression test to certify the engine is running at 13 bar or above.
When driving, check your rearview mirror for dark blue smoke, which signals excessive oil consumption.
Inspect the oil level and condition to prevent leakage caused by broken seals or gaskets.
Transmission, Powertrain, and Braking Systems
As you delve into the transmission, powertrain, and braking systems of your Volvo P1800, you’ll find that it comes with four transmission types: the M40 4-speed gearbox, the M41 4-speed manual transmission with electronic overdrive, M41 4-speed transmission with overdrive, or the BW35 automatic transmission.
When checking the gearbox condition, listen for unusual noises and look for signs of wear, such as a high-pitched whooping sound indicating broken needle bearings. Be sure to examine the automatic transmission oil to assess the condition of the BW35 automatic gearbox.
Transmission Types
When shopping for a Volvo P1800, transmission types are a key consideration.
You’ll find four options: the M40 4-speed gearbox, the M41 4-speed manual transmission with electronic overdrive, the M41 4-speed transmission with overdrive (exclusive to 1970 models), or the BW35 automatic transmission.
Fortunately, all transmissions are reliable, and parts are easy to replace.
However, listen for unusual noises, like a high-pitched whooping sound, which may indicate broken needle bearings.
With the BW35, check the automatic transmission oil for signs of trouble.
Gearbox Condition Check
You’ve narrowed down your Volvo P1800 options, considering transmission types.
Now it’s time to inspect. Be aware of gearbox noise, particularly a high or whooping sound, which indicates broken needle bearings.
- Check for unusual noises when shifting gears.
- A quieter top gear than other ratios signals transmission wear.
- Look for signs of leakage around the gearbox seals.
- Check the automatic transmission fluid (ATF) for the BW35 automatic transmission.
Replacing a gearbox will take around half a day, plus the cost of a new or rebuilt one.
Automatic Transmission Oil
The Volvo P1800’s condition is pivotal, and automatic transmission oil plays a pivotal role in its overall well-being.
You should prioritize regular fluid checks to guarantee the transmission operates smoothly. Don’t forget to inspect the filter, as clogged filters can lead to premature wear.
Additionally, be on the lookout for oil leak detection signs, such as drips or stains under the car.
Addressing these issues promptly will help prevent more costly problems down the line.
Interior, Wheels, and Suspension
As you inspect your Volvo P1800, you’ll want to check for worn interior and upholstery, which may show signs of aging and sun exposure.
Next, take a close look at the wheels, ensuring they’re rust-free and undamaged, and consider upgrading to GT-wheels or TUV-approved replicas for peak performance.
Additionally, don’t overlook the importance, as radial tires are a must for better handling and ideal road safety.
Interior Condition
Inspecting your Volvo P1800’s interior reveals a common battleground against aging and sun exposure, where cracks in dashboard padding, worn kickpanels, and dry rubbers are typical casualties.
You’ll likely find:
- Faded upholstery, cracked padding, and dry rubbers that need attention
- Worn kickpanels, window rubbers, and grommets that show signs of rust or damage
- Discolored or torn carpets, and loose or broken trim pieces
- Cracks in the dashboard or console that need repair or replacement
- Loose or broken seat belts and faded or torn seat covers
Wheels and Tires
Your Volvo P1800’s wheels and tires are vital components that demand attention to certify proper safety and handling.
In terms of rim selection, opt for GT-wheels like Lemmerz or TUV-approved replicas.
Certify correct ET and avoid spacers to prevent safety issues.
Radial tires are the best choice, providing better road handling and safety.
Inspect your spare tire to certify it’s in good condition, properly inflated to match the other tires.
Regular wheel maintenance is key, inspecting for rust and damage.
Proper tire alignment is also vital to prevent uneven wear and safety risks.
The Comfort Factor
When it pertains to the Volvo P1800, you’ll find that comfort is a crucial aspect to ponder, especially if you’re looking to use the car as a daily driver.
You’ll appreciate the last Volvo 1800E and 1800ES for their comfort levels, making them ideal for daily use.
The P1800 Jensen’s seats and undeveloped features may impact ride quality, making it less suited for daily driving.
The Volvo P1800’s interior space is less comfortable than other Volvo classics like the Amazon or 140.
Prioritizing comfort means considering the car’s intention and budget before searching.
Your budget will determine the amount of work a comfort-focused car requires.
Engine and Transmission Options
The Volvo P1800’s engine and transmission options are aspects to weigh, as they significantly impact your driving experience.
You’ll have four transmission choices: M40 4-speed gearbox, M41 4-speed manual with electronic overdrive, M41 4-speed with overdrive, and BW35 automatic transmission.
Be aware that the BW35’s condition can be easily inspected by checking the ATF. Listen for unusual noises, like a whooping sound indicating broken needle bearings or a quieter top gear suggesting gearbox wear.
Replacing a gearbox takes around half a day, plus the cost of a new or rebuilt gearbox.
Bodywork and Chassis Concerns
Moving beyond the transmission choices, you’ll want to inspect the Volvo P1800’s bodywork and chassis, as these areas are prone to issues that can be costly to repair.
Check for rust in areas like the front wings, wheel arches, and inner parts of the wings, as these are common problem spots in the P1800.
– Inspect the crossmember (radiator support) under the hood for rust, as this can be a costly repair if left unchecked.
The sills, especially the outer, inner, and welded body part, are prone to rust and should be carefully examined during a pre-purchase inspection.
– Bring small magnets and a sharp object to inspect the bodywork, as these tools can help identify any hidden rust or damage.
Welding bodywork is very expensive, especially for the Volvo P1800, so it’s essential to factor this into your budget and decision-making process.
Performance and Handling
When you’re evaluating the performance and handling of a Volvo P1800, you’ll want to pay attention to the engine’s condition, transmission health, and braking performance.
A compression test can give you a good idea of the engine’s internal state, while checking the transmission’s reliability is vital, especially considering the four transmission types this model can have.
Engine Condition
Checking your Volvo P1800’s engine condition is crucial to guarantee peak performance.
A well-maintained engine certifies a smooth ride and minimizes the risk of breakdowns.
- Keep an eye out for blue gases from the exhaust, indicating worn-out pistons or a broken head gasket.
- A compression test will reveal if your revised B18- or B20-engine is in good shape, with a minimum of 13 bar compression.
- Watch for black or dark blue smoke in the rearview mirror when accelerating from 35-40mph, signaling high oil consumption.
- Check for oil leakages due to faulty seals or gaskets, a sign of poor engine condition.
- Remember, high mileage isn’t a significant concern for the B18 and B20 engines, which are reliable and can withstand high mileage without significant performance degradation.
Transmission Health
Your Volvo P1800’s transmission health plays a vital role in its overall performance and handling.
With four transmission types, including the M40, M41, and BW35, it’s essential to monitor gearbox maintenance.
Listen for unusual noises, like a whooping sound from the manual transmission, which can indicate broken needle bearings.
Check the automatic transmission oil (ATF) for the BW35’s condition.
Be aware that manual gearboxes may sweat oil, but excessive oil traces from bearings or prop shaft indicate concerns.
Regular checks and potential transmission overhaul can prevent clutch wear and guarantee a smooth ride.
Braking Performance
As you guarantee your Volvo P1800’s transmission health, you’re also likely thinking about its overall performance and handling.
The braking system is reliable, but it’s not immune to issues.
Be on the lookout for leaks, which can cause brake fluid loss and non-working brakes.
- Check for brake fluid leaks under the brake booster and master cylinder
- Inspect brake pads for wear, and replace them when necessary
- Look for brake line rust and corrosion, which can lead to leaks
- Be prepared for a challenging repair process, especially for the brake booster on 1800E and 1800ES models
- Pay attention to brake cylinder maintenance to certify the simplex brake system functions properly
Transmission and Powertrain Issues
In terms of transmission and powertrain issues in your Volvo P1800, it’s essential to be aware of the types you might be facing, as this will impact your approach to diagnosing and fixing problems. You’ll need to know if you have a M40, M41, or BW35 transmission, as each has its quirks. For instance, a whooping noise from the manual gearbox may indicate broken needle bearings.
| Transmission Issue | Symptoms | Fix |
|---|---|---|
| Broken Needle Bearings | High-pitched whine | Replace bearings |
| Worn-out Gearbox | Quieter top gear | Gearbox overhaul |
| Clutch Issues | Oil traces from bearings | Clutch inspection and replacement |
Gearbox maintenance, clutch inspection, and powertrain overhaul are vital to extending the life of your transmission.
Interior and Upholstery
The Volvo P1800’s interior is a delicate balance of form and function, where worn-out components can quickly detract from its overall appeal.
As you inspect the interior, look for:
- Cracks in the padding on the dashboard and kickpanels
- Dry, brittle rubbers around doors and windows
- Fading or discoloration on the dashboard and upholstery
- Musty odors or stains indicating water damage
- Worn-out carpets and upholstery that are difficult to replace
Wheels and Suspension Systems
You’ve inspected the interior, now it’s time to get under the skin of your Volvo P1800.
In the realm of wheels, opt for rustless and damage-free ones, and be cautious of widened rims if not professionally installed.
For rim selection, consider GT-wheels like Lemmerz or TUV-approved replicas.
Verify correct ET and avoid spacers for stability and safety.
Perform wheel maintenance by checking wear patterns, including over and under inflation, one-side wear, cupping, and feathering.
Inspect tie rods, steering rods, and suspension components to verify a smooth and reliable ride.
When looking at performance cars, make sure to check out our guides on models like the Volvo XC90, Volvo XC70, Volvo S80 and Volvo S90. Knowing which model years to target and which to avoid is crucial. Our expert reviews break down these models, providing insights into the years that are celebrated for their engineering excellence and driving satisfaction, as well as those that are best to avoid due to potential issues.
