“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 primary problem of his newest creation – a Volvo P1800 restomod nicknamed the Saint – forward of its unveiling at this yr’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 folks concerned. A collaboration between von Braun Sports activities Automobiles and Zachau Design, the P1800 Saint group consists of ex-Volvo design workers from again within the automobile’s period. That features Pelle Petterson, the P1800’s unique 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.

Patrons can both provide their very own P1800 base for the Saint conversion or have von Braun Sports activities Automobiles supply an acceptable candidate for them. Every automobile is stripped proper right down to its naked shell earlier than being acid dipped after which improved in plenty of methods. Any rusted panels are changed, the transmission tunnel is bolstered, 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 Automobiles 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 lively rear wing/air brake – however one actually stood out to me. These 17-inch {custom} cast 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 possibly can 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 side 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.

All the things in right here has been custom-designed and completed, however is basically 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 fashionable look.

As you’d anticipate, every little thing is custom-tailored so trim choices are limitless. A rear seat part – constructed from carbon fiber after all – was on show subsequent to the Saint demo automobile, showcasing a special look.

Earlier, I discussed two decisions for the physique panels; in relation to the P1800 Saint’s engine, you’ve received 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 gasoline 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 supplies a cushty trip with all the facility and drivability of a GT-spec automobile, which is strictly what that is.

There’s a lot to this restomod that my fast highlight has undoubtedly not executed the P1800 Saint justice. If I’ve the prospect for a more in-depth look sooner or later, you possibly can depend on a full characteristic.

Alen Haseta
Instagram: hazetaa