The Volvo 122S, affectionately known as the Amazon, solidified Volvo’s reputation for safety and durability across the globe. This 1966 Volvo 122S two-door spent its entire life in California, a detail suggesting a drier environment. The car was recently brought back to life after being kept off the road since 2016, undergoing a comprehensive recommissioning process in 2024 and 2025. This work addressed body damage and mechanical needs, preparing this Swedish classic for a new chapter. It represents a resilient vehicle ready for its next enthusiastic owner.
Extensive Bodywork and Exterior Details
The car is finished in a classic blue color, having received a repaint at some point. Its long California life was not without incident, as the car sustained various body damages over the years. Bodywork in 2025 focused on addressing damaged rear and quarter panels, including the fitment of a replacement used trunk lid. The exterior details include bright chrome bumpers with guards and practical front vent windows. Importantly, the seller notes visible areas of rust and some cracked paint, which is common for a nearly 60-year-old vehicle.
Chassis and Braking System Refresh
The 1966 Volvo 122S two-door rides on 15-inch slotted-steel wheels. These classic wheels are finished in black and accented by bright hubcaps. They are mounted with 165-section Vredestein Sprint Classic tires, a popular choice for period correctness. Braking is handled by a combination of front discs and rear drums. Work completed for the sale included replacing the brake master cylinder. Furthermore, the brake calipers were cleaned and lubricated to ensure reliable stopping power.
Black Leatherette Interior and Cabin Features
The interior features front bucket seats and a rear bench upholstered in black leatherette. Interior appointments are simple and functional, true to Volvo’s pragmatic design philosophy. Amenities include a cabin heater, although the seller notes the fan works intermittently. The cabin also features practical additions like three-point front safety belts and a passenger-side grab handle. Notably, the seller performed extensive rust remediation and fitted replacement carpeting in the trunk and front passenger compartment.
Driver’s Instruments and Controls
The driver grips a simple two-spoke steering wheel. The dash features a VDO horizontal-sweep 120-mph speedometer, a signature element of the model. Supporting gauges display coolant temperature and fuel level for essential monitoring. An auxiliary starter switch and horn button were added under the dash by a previous owner. The five-digit odometer shows 42,000 miles, but the true total mileage is unknown, suggesting it has rolled over.
B18D Inline-Four Engine and Performance Specs
The 1.8-liter B18D inline-four engine was factory rated to produce 95 horsepower and 107 lb-ft of torque. The engine sends power to the rear wheels via a three-speed automatic transmission. Both the engine and transmission were reportedly rebuilt around 1977. This reliable engine received extensive work during the recommissioning. Maintenance included adjusting the valves and timing, rebuilding the dual SU carburetors, and replacing the fuel pump, distributor components, and exhaust system.
Summary of the Recommissioned 1966 Volvo 122S
In summary, this 1966 Volvo 122S two-door represents a solid, recommissioned example of the durable Swedish classic. Its California provenance and recent extensive mechanical and bodywork ensure it is ready for the road. The B18D engine and three-speed automatic transmission, though simple, provide dependable performance. With desirable features like front disc brakes and a refreshed interior, this two-door sedan offers an accessible entry point into classic Volvo ownership for those appreciating a vehicle with character and history.
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Source: bringatrailer.com
