A highly exclusive restomod of the classic Volvo P1800 ES shooting brake is entering production, boasting a powerful engine and a price tag exceeding that of many modern Ferraris. The vehicle, dubbed the Norrsken (meaning “northern light” in Swedish), is the creation of Dutch companies Autoforma and Volvo Lotte, who are reimagining this iconic 1970s Volvo.
Design and Performance Enhancements
Autoforma has significantly upgraded the P1800 ES’s design without straying too far from the original spirit. Aggressive carbon-fiber wheel arches give the car a muscular stance, complemented by adjusted ride height, wider track width, and bespoke forged alloy wheels. The bumpers, brightwork, and headlights have been modernized, with the addition of LED lighting and a carbon-fiber chin spoiler. A prominent spoiler enhances the rear profile, while an optional roof rack adds to the vehicle’s practicality.
Under the hood, the Norrsken features a tuned version of Volvo’s T5 five-cylinder engine, promising substantial performance. The restomod also includes modern transmission, improved braking, and quicker steering.
Exclusivity and Customization Options
Production will be capped at just five units per year, with each vehicle potentially costing upwards of £260,000 (excluding taxes). This positions the Norrsken above the base price of a new Ferrari Amalfi (£200,000) and even some used high-performance Ferraris.
Buyers will have three distinct design directions to choose from: Heritage Heaven, Modern Marvel, and Forward Fashionista.
- Heritage Heaven focuses on preserving the original aesthetic with discreet mechanical upgrades for reliability.
- Modern Marvel adopts a contemporary look with upgraded suspension, increased power, and modern materials.
- Forward Fashionista (shown in the images) is the most aggressive, with extensive mechanical enhancements, including the T5 engine and chassis modifications.
Interior Refinement and Luxury
The interior retains the classic Volvo dashboard layout, with reupholstered or revamped components rather than replacements. The aim is refinement, not total reinvention. The dashboard can be finished in body-color metal, brushed aluminum, or wood veneer. The front seats have been redesigned for improved ergonomics, while the rear seats now offer better sculpting.
The Norrsken maintains its four-seater configuration, with the rear seats folding to provide approximately 1,000 liters of luggage space. Customers can also opt for custom leather straps or aluminum rails in the boot. Modern amenities like infotainment and climate control are integrated discreetly to preserve the vehicle’s vintage ambiance.
The Norrsken represents a unique blend of classic design, modern performance, and extreme exclusivity, making it a standout offering for discerning collectors.
The price reflects not just the mechanical and aesthetic upgrades but also the limited production run and bespoke craftsmanship. This restomod isn’t just a car; it’s a statement piece for those who appreciate automotive history with a modern edge.
