Sweden vs Sweden — 1956 vs 1971
| Amazon 122S | 1800ES Standard | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 100 hp | 135 hp |
| Torque | 111 lb-ft | 129 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 1,780 cc | 1,986 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 12.5 sec | 9.5 sec |
| Top Speed | 103 mph | 118 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 18.5 sec | 17.0 sec |
| Weight | — | 2,668 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,590 mm | 2,450 mm |
| Length | 4,460 mm | 4,390 mm |
| Units Produced | 667,323 | 8,077 |
| Original MSRP | — | $5,275 |
| Value (Excellent) | $35,000 | $60,000 |
| Collectibility | 5/10 | 8/10 |
| Rarity | 4/10 | 7/10 |
The 1971 Volvo 1800ES Standard emerges ahead in most objective measures, offering more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed. The 1956 Volvo Amazon 122S counters with better value, but the numbers favor its rival. Still, both are remarkable machines, and the final choice often comes down to which driving experience speaks to you.
Within the Volvo stable, the 1956 Volvo Amazon 122S and 1971 Volvo 1800ES Standard represent different approaches to performance and purpose. Both carry the Volvo badge, yet each carves out its own distinct identity. The 1971 Volvo 1800ES Standard holds a clear advantage in raw power with 135 hp compared to 100 hp, a 35-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Volvo Amazon uses a Inline-4 OHV 8V displacing 1,780 cc, while the Volvo 1800ES relies on a Inline-4 OHV with 1,986 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1971 Volvo 1800ES Standard edges ahead at 9.5 seconds versus 12.5 seconds. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 8,077 units built, the 1971 Volvo 1800ES Standard is considerably scarcer than the Volvo Amazon's 667,323 examples. From a collectibility standpoint, the 1971 Volvo 1800ES Standard rates higher among enthusiasts and auction houses.