My 1965 1800S Convertible

"My 1965 Volvo 1800S Convertible"- The Story of Constantine & His 1965 1800S

Constantine Kokkinos purchased his first 1965 Volvo 1800S Convertible in 2010. Excited for his new project, the car had come from Zeebrugge, Belgium, and at the time was in very rough shape. Taking roughly three days to drive 480 miles, the front wheel would lock up when the breaks were activated, and the gas tank was so rusted it was leaking gas! Luckily, Constantine made it home safe, and thus, the 12 year restoration began.

The 1800S was given minor repairs and then drove to Athens, Greece, where the rest of the restoration would take place. Each project required for the car would take up to 24 months due to preparation, getting parts, and actually doing the job. 

The breaks were fixed first. Then, all the break lines, the vacuum power booster, hoses, discs and drums were replaced. The electrical system received new wiring harness and connectors. The generator was replaced, and an alternator was added in its place. The dash was rebuilt, including the restoration of the original radio and dashboard clock. Floor lights were added, and the voltage regulator and fuse box were replaced. The fuel gage was also not working, which was later replaced. The fuel tank was so rusted that the gas was leaking from it! Unfortunately, Constantine needed to wait for a new one to arrive from Skandix in Germany. 

All of the interior cloth was replaced with velvet black carpet, and three point seat belts were added which were not standard in the 1965 Volvo 1800 at the time. The OEM door mirrors were also replaced, as well as the tires. When trying to find the best rims for his Volvo, Constantine came across original Borrani spokes. However, the spokes would have to come all the way from Australia, which would take even more time, but he wanted to make sure every detail was perfect. Last, the engine was replaced and thus the 1965 Volvo 1800s Convertible was reborn. 

It is no wonder why the restoration took over 12 years! Every part was hand selected and imported from a different country, and every detail was made perfect up to the spokes on the tires!  A lot of love and soul was obviously put into this Volvo, which now proudly drives on the streets today! 

 Constantine is now ready to turn his 1965 Volvo over to a new owner, who will enjoy it just as much as he has. The Volvo still runs today, and is in the best condition it has been in since 1965.