Sweden vs Sweden — 1956 vs 1962
| Amazon 122S | Amazon P220 Estate | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 100 hp | 100 hp |
| Torque | 111 lb-ft | 115 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 1,780 cc | 1,986 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 12.5 sec | 12.8 sec |
| Top Speed | 103 mph | 103 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 18.5 sec | 18.8 sec |
| Weight | — | 2,491 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,590 mm | 2,590 mm |
| Length | 4,460 mm | 4,490 mm |
| Units Produced | 667,323 | 73,197 |
| Original MSRP | — | $3,095 |
| Value (Excellent) | $35,000 | $45,000 |
| Collectibility | 5/10 | 7/10 |
| Rarity | 4/10 | 6/10 |
It's a closely fought contest. The 1956 Volvo Amazon 122S brings quicker acceleration to the table, and the 1962 Volvo Amazon P220 Estate answers with greater rarity, stronger collectibility. Both are excellent machines that reward their owners in different ways — there's no wrong answer here.
Few model names carry as much weight as the Volvo Amazon. The 1956 and 1962 iterations represent different chapters in this storied nameplate's history, each reflecting the priorities and technologies of its era. On paper, the two are remarkably close in power output, with the 1956 Volvo Amazon 122S producing 100 hp and the 1962 Volvo Amazon P220 Estate delivering 100 hp. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Volvo Amazon uses a Inline-4 OHV 8V displacing 1,780 cc, while the Volvo Amazon relies on a Inline-4 OHV with 1,986 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1956 Volvo Amazon 122S edges ahead at 12.5 seconds versus 12.8 seconds. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 73,197 units built, the 1962 Volvo Amazon P220 Estate is considerably scarcer than the Volvo Amazon's 667,323 examples. Both trade at comparable values on the collector market, making the choice between them largely one of personal preference. From a collectibility standpoint, the 1962 Volvo Amazon P220 Estate rates higher among enthusiasts and auction houses.