Sweden vs Sweden — 1971 vs 1967
| 1800ES Standard | Amazon 123GT | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 135 hp | 115 hp |
| Torque | 129 lb-ft | 115 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 1,986 cc | 1,780 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 9.5 sec | 11.0 sec |
| Top Speed | 118 mph | 109 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 17.0 sec | 17.8 sec |
| Weight | 2,668 lbs | 2,381 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,450 mm | 2,590 mm |
| Length | 4,390 mm | 4,450 mm |
| Units Produced | 8,077 | 1,528 |
| Original MSRP | $5,275 | $3,300 |
| Value (Excellent) | $60,000 | $65,000 |
| Collectibility | 8/10 | 8/10 |
| Rarity | 7/10 | 8/10 |
It's a closely fought contest. The 1971 Volvo 1800ES Standard brings more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed to the table, and the 1967 Volvo Amazon 123GT answers with lighter weight, greater rarity. Both are excellent machines that reward their owners in different ways — there's no wrong answer here.
Volvo has long offered a diverse lineup, and comparing the 1971 Volvo 1800ES Standard with the 1967 Volvo Amazon 123GT highlights the breadth of the marque's engineering philosophy. The 1971 Volvo 1800ES Standard holds a clear advantage in raw power with 135 hp compared to 115 hp, a 20-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1971 Volvo 1800ES Standard edges ahead at 9.5 seconds versus 11.0 seconds. The Volvo Amazon carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 287 lbs lighter. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 1,528 units built, the 1967 Volvo Amazon 123GT is considerably scarcer than the Volvo 1800ES's 8,077 examples. Both trade at comparable values on the collector market, making the choice between them largely one of personal preference.