Volvo Amazon P121
I have always been fascinated by classic cars. Ever since I was little, it
was always clear that I would someday own a classic automobile.
Having started my mechanical engineering studies in 2014 I felt that I needed real-life mechanical practice and experience to maximize my engineering potential. My working student occupations and internships gave me a good insight into the working world of engineering, but I was somehow always missing hands-on experiences. Therefore in 2016, I decided to combine my love for classic cars and the need for hands-on experience by buying a grey 1965 Volvo Amazon P121. I have always been a big Volvo fan so owning an Amazon was a no-brainer. Even in 1965 Volvos already where ahead of their time in terms of durability and safety. The reliable B18A motor is practically unkillable, the front wheels are equipped with disc brakes and all seats were equipped with three-point belts straight from the factory.
Of course, owning a 56-year-old car comes with a few challenges. Breaking down in the middle of nowhere because your alternator is not working can be a possibility. I therefore have spent quite a few hours under the car but was also able to learn a lot in terms of car restoration, creative problem solving and automotive engineering.
I have recently started maintaining my dad’s 1970 Volkswagen Karmann Ghia as well.
Here is a short list of things I have recently accomplished on or with my Volvo:
Completely restored the brake system (disc brakes, drum brakes, brake booster, brake
lines, etc.)
Swapped the rear suspension system
Restored the exhaust system including the exhaust manifold
Restored the carburetor and air filter system
Recreated the wiper system including the wiper system pump (see my
wiper system project
)
Exchanged the intercooler and cooling system
Overhauled the electrical system (battery, fuses, cables, distributor, alternator, etc.)
And taken a road trip from Munich to Düsseldorf to Stuttgart and back to Munich without
any issues
Having started my mechanical engineering studies in 2014 I felt that I needed real-life mechanical practice and experience to maximize my engineering potential. My working student occupations and internships gave me a good insight into the working world of engineering, but I was somehow always missing hands-on experiences. Therefore in 2016, I decided to combine my love for classic cars and the need for hands-on experience by buying a grey 1965 Volvo Amazon P121. I have always been a big Volvo fan so owning an Amazon was a no-brainer. Even in 1965 Volvos already where ahead of their time in terms of durability and safety. The reliable B18A motor is practically unkillable, the front wheels are equipped with disc brakes and all seats were equipped with three-point belts straight from the factory.
Of course, owning a 56-year-old car comes with a few challenges. Breaking down in the middle of nowhere because your alternator is not working can be a possibility. I therefore have spent quite a few hours under the car but was also able to learn a lot in terms of car restoration, creative problem solving and automotive engineering.
I have recently started maintaining my dad’s 1970 Volkswagen Karmann Ghia as well.
Here is a short list of things I have recently accomplished on or with my Volvo:
