“It’s exhausting to take one thing so good and make it even higher.”
These are the phrases of Swedish automobile builder Torbjörn von Braun as he described the principle problem of his newest creation – a Volvo P1800 restomod nicknamed the Saint – forward of its unveiling at this 12 months’s Elmia Customized Motor Present. Because it seems although, this was a problem not solely accepted, however completely overcome.
The unique P1800 was manufactured by Volvo between 1961 and 1973, and this challenge has some actual credibility because of the individuals concerned. A collaboration between von Braun Sports activities Vehicles and Zachau Design, the P1800 Saint workforce consists of ex-Volvo design workers from again within the automobile’s period. That features Pelle Petterson, the P1800’s authentic designer.
Like many restomods, the P1800 Saint retains the silhouette of the unique automobile, however even earlier than you delve beneath the pores and skin it’s a really completely different machine to the P1800s that left the Volvo manufacturing unit greater than 50 years in the past.
Consumers can both provide their very own P1800 base for the Saint conversion or have von Braun Sports activities Vehicles supply an appropriate candidate for them. Every automobile is stripped proper right down to its naked shell earlier than being acid dipped after which improved in a variety of methods. Any rusted panels are changed, the transmission tunnel is strengthened, an epoxy primer and sealer is utilized to all joints for rust safety, and a sound-absorbing rubber coating is added to the underside.
Relating to the outside, von Braun Sports activities Vehicles is providing the P1800 Saint with two physique panel choices: metal or ultra-light carbon fiber. After last paint, additional carbon items are added to each variations.
The outside has a number of tasteful upgrades for the trendy period – together with the choice of a speed-sensitive energetic rear wing/air brake – however one actually stood out to me. These 17-inch {custom} solid wheels – named the Fortunate 7 – had been designed by Hans Phillip Zachau (of Zachau Design), taking inspiration from racing machines of the Nineteen Sixties and ’70s.
Behind the wheels you may catch a glimpse of the brake improve, which options Brembo 4-piston callipers and 330mm carbon-ceramic brake discs within the entrance, and a Brembo 4-piston/320mm setup out again with an extra calliper for the park brake. Moreover, ABS is added, however this may be disabled when ‘Chase Mode’ is enabled. I just like the sound of that!
The suspension is totally bespoke, constructed round double wishbones entrance and rear. It’s additionally a visible facet of the P1800 Saint, with the pushrod rear suspension that includes totally adjustable Öhlins coilovers on present, however sealed off from the cabin with a glass display screen.
That cabin is one thing very particular too.
Every little thing in right here has been custom-designed and completed, however is essentially based mostly on the unique fit-out. The door panels, roof liner and entrance seats are upholstered in crimson leather-based.
The unique sprint format has been preserved, however it’s re-trimmed and makes use of gauges made by watchmakers. The 2-spoke steering wheel is an iconic characteristic of the unique P1800, and the design has been retained within the Saint, albeit in a smaller measurement and with a extra trendy look.
As you’d count on, every little thing is custom-tailored so trim choices are countless. A rear seat part – constructed from carbon fiber after all – was on show subsequent to the Saint demo automobile, showcasing a unique look.
Earlier, I discussed two decisions for the physique panels; in relation to the P1800 Saint’s engine, you’ve bought three. The first is a nostalgic, naturally-aspirated four-cylinder Volvo engine, fed by a carburettor and outputting 150hp+. The second is a naturally-aspirated 2.4L Volvo five-cylinder with gas injection, good for 250hp+. The ultimate engine, as seen within the demo automobile, is a turbocharged 2.4L five-cylinder Volvo T5. This one is making round 450hp – which is lots for a automobile that weighs just below 1,100kg or 2,425lb – however 750hp is feasible.
Mounted longitudinally, the engine marries as much as both a handbook transmission, or with the 2 2.4L engines, the choice of a 7-speed Getrag dual-clutch transmission and Sellholm Tuning differential to drive the rear wheels. The DCT configuration gives a snug experience with all the ability and drivability of a GT-spec automobile, which is precisely what that is.
There’s a lot to this restomod that my fast highlight has positively not accomplished the P1800 Saint justice. If I’ve the prospect for a more in-depth look sooner or later, you may rely on a full characteristic.
Alen Haseta
Instagram: hazetaa
