Sweden vs Sweden — 1967 vs 1986
| Amazon 123GT | 480 Turbo | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 115 hp | 120 hp |
| Torque | 115 lb-ft | 129 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 1,780 cc | 1,721 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 11.0 sec | 8.5 sec |
| Top Speed | 109 mph | 124 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 17.8 sec | 16.4 sec |
| Weight | 2,381 lbs | 2,403 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,590 mm | 2,500 mm |
| Length | 4,450 mm | 4,258 mm |
| Units Produced | 1,528 | 76,375 |
| Original MSRP | $3,300 | — |
| Value (Excellent) | $65,000 | $15,000 |
| Collectibility | 8/10 | 5/10 |
| Rarity | 8/10 | 6/10 |
This matchup is remarkably close. The 1967 Volvo Amazon 123GT offers greater rarity, stronger collectibility, while the 1986 Volvo 480 Turbo counters with quicker acceleration, higher top speed, better value. Neither holds a decisive advantage, making this a true enthusiast's dilemma. Your choice ultimately depends on which driving philosophy resonates more with you.
Within the Volvo stable, the 1967 Volvo Amazon 123GT and 1986 Volvo 480 Turbo represent different approaches to performance and purpose. Both carry the Volvo badge, yet each carves out its own distinct identity. On paper, the two are remarkably close in power output, with the 1967 Volvo Amazon 123GT producing 115 hp and the 1986 Volvo 480 Turbo delivering 120 hp. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Volvo Amazon uses a Inline-4 OHV displacing 1,780 cc, while the Volvo 480 relies on a Inline-4 SOHC with 1,721 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1986 Volvo 480 Turbo edges ahead at 8.5 seconds versus 11.0 seconds. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 1,528 units built, the 1967 Volvo Amazon 123GT is considerably scarcer than the Volvo 480's 76,375 examples. On the collector market, the 1967 Volvo Amazon 123GT commands a significant premium over the 1986 Volvo 480 Turbo, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity. From a collectibility standpoint, the 1967 Volvo Amazon 123GT rates higher among enthusiasts and auction houses.