1968 Volvo 1800S 4-Speed

Description

The 1968 Volvo 1800S is a refined evolution of Volvo’s stylish sports coupe, originally launched in 1961. By 1963, production moved to Sweden, giving rise to the “S” designation. Powered by a 1.8L inline-four with dual carburetors, it produced 115 horsepower and was paired with a four-speed manual transmission with overdrive. Designed by Pelle Petterson with input from Carrozzeria Ghia, the 1800S blended Scandinavian engineering with Italian elegance. Its durable chassis featured front disc brakes, rear drums, swing-axle suspension, and a torque-rod system for improved handling.  

This 1968 example was purchased by the seller in 2022 and subsequently saw mechanical work including clutch hydraulics, fuel system components, suspension bushings, and more. Refinished in a factory Ice Blue over black leather upholstery prior to the seller’s acquisition, this 1.8L four-cylinder Volvo is now fitted with dual Weber 40 DCOE carburetors and features a 4-speed manual transmission with overdrive.

This 1800S is now offered on behalf of the current owner with recent service records and a clean Michigan title.

Factory Equipment 

• Ice Blue paint (code 95-1) 

• Black leather upholstery  

• 1.8L inline four-cylinder engine

• Four-speed manual transmission with overdrive 

• Finned aluminum valve cover 

• Front disc brakes 

• 15” steel wheels with chrome rings and hub caps 

• Smiths gauges with 120 mph speedometer 

• Bright metal dashboard trim 

Modifications 

• Repainted factory Ice Blue

• Weber 40 DCOE carburetors 

• Clarion AM/FM/cassette stereo 

• Yellow-lens Hella driving lights 

• Talbot bullet-style side mirrors 

• Chrome luggage rack 

 Servicing & Documentation  

• 2023: Records available  

  • 175/65r15 Toyo Extensa tires 

  • Replaced exhaust 

• 2022: Work performed at Tarlton Vintage Autos  

  • Replaced fuel tank and sending unit 

  • Replaced lower ball joints and suspension bushings 

  • Replaced clutch master and slave cylinders  

  • Replaced brake hoses 

  • Replaced rear axle straps 

  • Replaced rubber seals for doors, truck, hood, headlight bezels, and license plate lamp housing 

  • Replaced top dash pad 

  • Replaced drip rail trim  

  • Replaced battery 

  • Replaced speedometer angle drive 

Known Imperfections  

• Paint chips on left front quarter that have been touched up 

• Crack in left door card 

• Right side rear bumper rubber imperfection 

• Scratch in the chrome on right side of bumper 

• Seller states exterior chrome is showing age 

Ownership History 

This 1968 Volvo 1800S was purchased by the seller in 2022 out of Ohio, where it had reportedly been stored indoors. Serviced by the Volvo specialists at Tarlton Vintage Autos, this Volvo was refreshed to roadworthy condition, allowing it to be properly enjoyed. The current owner states that this is one of only 339 factory Ice Blue optioned examples in the Volvo P1800 registry.

Included Items 

• Part receipts and service records from current ownership  

• Spare wheel/tire and factory jack 

Additional Information

From the seller, “Peppy little 1800 with the Weber carbs and a great cruiser with the overdrive. Added Talbot Mirrors, luggage rack and fog lights are a nice touch that really round out the looks! You'll definitely turn heads while cruising around town with this 1800S!”