
Volvo 1800ES (1971-73)
Production Total: The Volvo 1800 ES had a total production of **8,077 units** between 1971 and 1973 - Motor Car History](https://www.motor-car.net/volvo/item/26744-volvo-p1800-es).
*****
Price New: In 1971, the new price of a Volvo 1800ES in the UK was approximately **£2,298**.
The new price of a Volvo 1800ES in 1971 was approximately **£2,500**. Adjusted for inflation to 2025, this would roughly equate to **£35,000**.
*****
Rivals: In 1971, the main rivals of the Volvo 1800ES and their approximate prices in the UK were:
### MGB GT
- **Price**: Around £1,200
### Datsun 240Z
- **Price**: Around £2,200
### Ford Capri 3000 GT
- **Price**: Around £1,500
These prices reflect the competitive landscape of the sports car segment during that time.
*****
Recorded in UK 2025
As of 2025, there are **3 Volvo 1800ES** vehicles left in the UK with a valid MOT.
*****
PLEASE NOTE: The information provided below is given in averages across Northern Ireland at the date specified. Petrol reflect average prices for four star fuel in litres.
Road Tax: In 1971, the road tax for vehicles in the UK was based on engine size. For the Volvo 1800 ES, which had a 2.0L engine, the road tax would have been approximately **£25 per year**.
*****
Petrol: In 1971, the cost of four-star petrol in the UK was approximately **7.5 pence per litre** - Citroen HY Online](https://www.citroenhyonline.co.uk/resources/AA%20Petrol_Prices_1896_2012_gallons.pdf).
*****
Insurance: In 1971, the average cost of insurance for a Volvo 1800ES in the UK would have varied based on factors such as the driver's age, location, and driving history. However, for a typical driver, the average annual premium was around **£30**.
*****
1971/COST OF LIVING UK
In 1971, the average annual salary in the UK was approximately **£1,500** for male manual workers and **£750** for female manual workers.
Using the average annual inflation rate of **5.11%** between 1971 and 2025, **£1,500 in 1971 would be equivalent to approximately £27,090 in 2025**.
*****
In 1971, the average price of a house in the UK was around **£4,975**. Adjusting for inflation, this would be approximately **£75,000 to £80,000** in today's terms.
*****
In 1971, the average price of a new car in the UK was around **£1,000**. Adjusting for inflation, this would be approximately **£15,000 to £16,000** in today's terms.
*****
In 1971, the average price of a loaf of bread in the UK was around **10 pence**.
Adjusting for inflation, **10 pence in 1971** would be approximately **£1.75 to £2** in 2025 terms.
*****
Combining urban and rural averages across the UK, the estimated average cost per mile of a bus journey in 1971 was approximately: 6p per mile.
Adjusting for inflation, **6 pence in 1971** would be approximately **£1.05 to £1.10** in 2025 terms.
*****
The average cost of a taxi fare per mile in the UK in 1971 was approximately 22.5 new pence (£0.225).
Adjusting for inflation, **22.5 pence in 1971** would be approximately **£3.95 to £4.25** in 2025 terms.
*****
In 1971, the average cost per mile for a railway journey in the UK was around **1 penny per mile** (approximately **£0.03 to £0.04** in today's terms).
*****
In 1971, there were approximately **6.5 million vehicles** on UK roads. This included a mix of private cars, commercial vehicles, and motorcycles.
As of 2025, there are approximately **41.4 million vehicles** on UK roads.
*****

COMMON FAULTS
Please Note: Common Faults in Regularly Used Vehicles vs. Low-Mileage Stored Vehicles that have been used consistently over many years, accumulating approximately 10,000–12,000 miles annually, are more prone to common faults due to regular wear and tear. These issues typically arise from the natural aging of components subjected to frequent use, such as engine parts, suspension systems, brakes, and tires. In contrast, vehicles with low mileage that have been stored or preserved are likely to experience different types of issues. These vehicles are often better maintained to ensure their longevity and may avoid some of the typical wear-and-tear problems seen in regularly driven cars. However, they can still face unique challenges such as degradation of rubber seals, corrosion from prolonged inactivity, or fuel system issues caused by old or stagnant fuel.
The Volvo 1800ES, like any classic car, has its share of common faults. Here are some issues that owners often encounter:
1. **Rust**: The 1800ES is prone to rust, especially in the wheel arches, sills, and floor pans.
2. **Electrical Problems**: Issues with the wiring and electrical components, such as the alternator and starter motor, are common.
3. **Fuel System**: Problems with the fuel injection system, including faulty injectors and fuel pumps, can occur.
4. **Cooling System**: Radiator and water pump failures are not uncommon, leading to overheating issues.
5. **Transmission**: The manual gearbox can develop synchro problems, making gear changes difficult.
6. **Suspension**: Worn suspension components, such as bushings and shock absorbers, can affect ride quality and handling.
7. **Interior Wear**: The interior, particularly the seats and dashboard, can suffer from wear and tear over time.
These issues are typical for a car of this age and can be addressed with regular maintenance and care.
*****
Generations/Trim Levels
Please Note: Generations and Trim Levels Across Countries
Generations and trim levels of vehicles often vary between countries as manufacturers tailor models to meet the preferences and requirements of specific markets. For example, a trim level designated as “GL” in the UK might be labelled as “XS” in another country. Due to these regional differences, the information provided on this site pertains exclusively to UK-specific products.
The Volvo 1800 series, including the 1800ES, had a single generation but went through several updates and variations during its production run from 1961 to 1973. Here are the main trim levels and variations:
### Trim Levels and Variations
1. **P1800 (1961-1963)**: The initial model, produced by Jensen Motors in the UK.
2. **1800S (1963-1969)**: Production moved to Sweden, with various updates including a more powerful engine.
3. **1800E (1970-1972)**: Introduced fuel injection and other improvements.
4. **1800ES (1971-1973)**: The final version, featuring a shooting brake body style with increased luggage capacity.
These variations reflect the evolution of the Volvo 1800 series over its production years.
*****
Engines
The Volvo 1800 series, including the 1800ES, had several engine options throughout its production run from 1961 to 1973. Here are the main engines available:
### Engine Options
1. **B18 Engine (1961-1968)**
- **Type**: 1.8L inline-4
- **Power**: 100-108 bhp
- **Fuel System**: Carburettor
2. **B20 Engine (1968-1973)**
- **Type**: 2.0L inline-4
- **Power**: 118-130 bhp
- **Fuel System**: Carburettor and later Bosch electronic fuel injection
These engines provided a good balance of performance and reliability, making the Volvo 1800 series a popular choice among sports car enthusiasts.
*****
Performance
The Volvo 1800ES, produced between 1971 and 1973, offered solid performance for its time. Here are the key performance figures:
### Volvo 1800ES Performance
- **Engine**: 2.0L inline-4 (B20)
- **Power**: 113-124 bhp (84-91 kW)
- **Torque**: 157-167 Nm (116-123 lb-ft)
- **Top Speed**: 115 mph (185 km/h)
- **0-60 mph**: Approximately 11.3 seconds
These performance figures made the Volvo 1800ES a popular choice among sports car enthusiasts.
*****
Rivals
In 1971, the main rivals of the Volvo 1800ES in the UK included the MGB GT, Datsun 240Z, and Ford Capri 3000 GT. Here's a brief overview of their performance:
### MGB GT
- **Engine**: 1.8L inline-4
- **Power**: 95 bhp (71 kW)
- **Top Speed**: 105 mph (169 km/h)
- **0-60 mph**: Approximately 12.0 seconds
### Datsun 240Z
- **Engine**: 2.4L inline-6
- **Power**: 151 bhp (113 kW)
- **Top Speed**: 125 mph (201 km/h)
- **0-60 mph**: Approximately 8.0 seconds
### Ford Capri 3000 GT
- **Engine**: 3.0L V6
- **Power**: 138 bhp (103 kW)
- **Top Speed**: 124 mph (200 km/h)
- **0-60 mph**: Approximately 8.4 seconds
These performance figures made these models competitive in the sports car segment during that time.
*****
Designer/Dimensions
The Volvo 1800ES was designed by **Pelle Petterson** under the guidance of Italian auto stylist **Pietro Frua**.
### Dimensions of the Volvo 1800ES
- **Length**: 4,390 mm (172.8 in)
- **Width**: 1,700 mm (66.9 in)
- **Height**: 1,280 mm (50.4 in)
- **Wheelbase**: 2,450 mm (96.5 in)
- **Curb Weight**: 1,186 kg (2,615 lbs).
These dimensions contributed to the sleek and practical design of the Volvo 1800ES, making it a unique and stylish choice among sports cars.
*****
Spares/Specialists
For locating spares for the Volvo 1800ES in the UK and Ireland, you can check out the following sources:
### Spare Parts
1. **Brookhouse Volvo Parts**: They offer a wide range of parts for the Volvo 1800 series, including the 1800ES. You can find everything from engine components to body panels [here](https://www.classicvolvoparts.co.uk/car.asp?cID=2&page=Volvo_1800_1800S_1800E_1800ES).
2. **Classic Volvo Restoration (CVR)**: They stock a large selection of Volvo P1800 S/E/ES parts, covering every aspect of interior and exterior design [here](https://classicvolvorestoration.com/c/classic-volvo-parts/volvo-1800-parts).
### Garage Services in Northern Ireland
1. **Agnew Belfast – Volvo Cars**: An official Volvo dealership providing sales, service, and parts. Located at 1 Boucher Way, Belfast BT12 6RE. You can contact them at 028 9068 6000 [here](https://www.agnewcars.com/volvo/).
2. **Commons Brae Garage**: A trusted car repair establishment located at 188 Saintfield Road, Breda BT8 6NN. You can contact them at 028 9543 8739 [here](https://www.bing.com/search?q=Commons%20Brae%20Garage&filters=local_ypid%3a%22YN1029x10449044347235568160%22).
3. **Approved Garages**: A network of trusted independent garages across the UK, including Belfast, that can handle Volvo repairs and servicing needs [here](https://www.approvedgarages.co.uk/mot-servicing-and-repairs/car-brands/volvo/belfast/).
These resources should help you keep your Volvo 1800ES in top condition.
*****
Racing
The Volvo 1800 series, including the 1800ES, did see some action in motorsport, although it wasn't primarily designed as a racing car. The P1800, in particular, was used in various rally events and endurance races. It gained some recognition in the motorsport world for its durability and reliability.
One notable achievement was in 1965 when a Volvo P1800 driven by Sylvia Osterberg won the European Ladies' Rally Championship. The car's robust build and dependable performance made it a popular choice for privateers in rallying and other motorsport events.
*****
Valuation
In 2025, the value of a Volvo 1800ES in the UK can vary based on factors such as condition, mileage, and originality. Here are the approximate values:
### Volvo 1800ES Values (2025)
- **Lowest Price**: £2,607
- **Median Price**: £15,660
- **Highest Price**: £58,970.
These values reflect the market trends for classic cars and the demand among enthusiasts and collectors.
*****
Clubs
There are clubs and communities for Volvo owners in Northern Ireland. Here are a few options:
### Volvo Owners Club Forum
- **Website**: [Volvo Owners Club Forum](https://www.volvoforums.org.uk/showthread.php?t=148296&nojs=1)
- **Description**: A forum where Volvo enthusiasts can discuss various topics, share experiences, and seek advice.
### Agnew Belfast – Volvo Cars
- **Location**: 1 Boucher Way, Belfast BT12 6RE
- **Phone**: 028 9068 6000
- **Website**: [Agnew Belfast](https://www.agnewcars.com/volvo/)
- **Description**: An official Volvo dealership that provides sales, service, and parts. They may also have information on local Volvo events and gatherings.
These clubs and forums can be great resources for connecting with other Volvo owners, finding parts, and getting advice on maintaining your vehicle.
*****
1971/COST OF LIVING UK
In 1971, the average annual salary in the UK was approximately **£1,600**.
£1,600 in 1971 is equivalent to approximately **£23,500** today.
*****
In 1971, the average house price in the UK was approximately **£5,632**](https://www.propertyinvestmentproject.co.uk/property-statistics/nationwide-average-house-price/).
£5,632 in 1971 is equivalent to approximately **£83,000** today.
*****
In 1971, the average price of a loaf of bread in the UK was around **10 pence**.
10 pence in 1971 is equivalent to approximately **£1.47** today.
-*****