Test Drive - 1973 Volvo 1800ES Estate Wagon!

This is a rust-free 30,000-mile 1973 Volvo 1800ES Estate Wagon that has been in Southern California since new. The Light Blue Metallic with blue interior is our favorite color combination for this modern classic, and with its four-speed manual transmission with overdrive, it is wonderful to drive. Rarely does one see the 1800ES with such incredibly low mileage. This is one to consider for local and regional shows and as a classic daily driver.
As per the data tag, this Volvo was specifically built for California delivery from the factory. Presumably bought new at San Diego Volvo in Kearny Mesa, CA, this Volvo was non-operational and was in storage since 1974. For many decades this Volvo was owned by the President of the San Diego chapter of the Volvo Owners Club. He continued to have it on non-operational status for many years while he continued to work on the car and improve it. By July 2020, the Volvo was acquired by Martin Scholz of Rancho Palos Verdes, CA. Mr. Scholz continued its non-operational status and stored it until acquired by Classic Promenade.
The livery is a nice quality repaint in its original Light Blue Metallic (Color Code 111). There are several small touched up chips from normal use and the paint has wonderful shine and luster. Most of the chrome and stainless steel are original and are in good condition. The rear taillights and bumper have some light pitting and there are light dents in a couple of the stainless-steel side strips. The original 15-inch wheels have also been repainted and mounted with 185/65 Blacklion Landscape blackwall BH15 radial tires. The exterior is well accessorized with dual side mirrors, and twin polished exhaust outlets. We love the full glass rear hatch allowing the occupants a clear view to the back of the car. Overall, the exterior looks sharp and reflects a very low mileage original car.
The interior looks sharp with its Light Blue vinyl upholstery and blue carpeting (Upholstery 460-888). The upholstery and carpeting are in very nice condition and the reclining seats are very comfortable and appropriate for spirited driving. The dashboard is black with woodgrain dashboard trim, a locking center console, an AM/FM radio and wood shift knob. The upper dash pad has been covered and the lower dash pad has a small crack. Otherwise, the interior appears very original and in great condition. We love the blue seats and door panels with the Light Blue Metallic paint. It looks very modern today!
The engine compartment is in excellent condition. It is detailed for show and looks great. The 2.0-liter B20F inline-four is equipped with Bosch D-Jetronic fuel injection and was factory rated at 130 horsepower. This is the final iteration of the engine and supplies ample power and acceleration. Power is routed to the rear wheels through a four-speed manual transmission with Laycock de Normanville electric overdrive. The four-wheel power-assisted brakes are excellent and give a sense of confidence. The Volvo has been serviced and is ready to be enjoyed.
We have this priced very well. We see this valued easily as a No. 2 example based on its exceptionally low mileage and being completely free of rust. The Hagerty Value for a No. 2 example is $41,000. 1973 Volvo 1800ES Base | Hagerty Valuation Tools
For more information and details, please call or text Harry Clark at +1.602.245.7200 or email us at [e-mail]. This 1973 Volvo 1800ES is available for inspection at our Phoenix showroom. We are pleased to offer FaceTime or WhatsApp live video inspections and we help coordinate shipping worldwide. We also have financing partners if you are interested in financing.