Following its 2020 launch to rave reviews in Europe, the Volvo P1800 Cyan will make its official North American debut this summer at The Quail, a Motorsports Gathering on August 9. Prior to that, Cyan Racing will introduce its exquisite resto-mod to the Los Angeles media and public at a number of special events.
Without doubt, the Volvo P1800 Cyan is an extraordinary interpretation of the original 1960s Swedish/Italian-designed Volvo coupe. Built by the five-time and reigning World Touring Car Champions, Cyan Racing, the car combines the best motorsports technology with classic styling.
The Swedish engineers have decided to create a production version from the original prototype and its debut at The Quail will allow driving enthusiasts an opportunity to purchase their own Volvo P1800 Cyan.
- High-strength steel chassis and carbon fiber body
- Race-proven 420hp 2.0L four-cylinder turbocharged engine
- Bespoke, fully adjustable independent suspension
- Highest quality components including AP Racing, Ohlins, Pirelli, Recaro, etc
- Lightweight 2180 lb package
- A unique driving experience
- Hand-built in Sweden and available for purchase
When approaching a vehicle that’s more than 50 years old, a number of measures were deemed essential by the Cyan engineers. Alterations to accommodate a wider track and larger wheels, strengthening the body to reduce flex, and a repositioned greenhouse were top of the long list of design considerations.
“The basis for a precise driving experience is a solid body structure. Cars from the ’60s always have weak points and low quality steel that allows flexing,” said Evensson. “Using experience learned on the race track, we redesigned the original structure and strengthened weak points in the chassis through triangulation using high-strength steel. We also integrated the carbon fiber body with the chassis structure – It’s not simply separate pieces, the body panels became structural components joined to the steel with high-strength adhesive. This allowed the carbon fiber to greatly reinforce the structural rigidity.”
Although the Volvo P1800 Cyan is significantly more rigid than the original 1964 P1800 donor vehicle, the process of refinement and reinforcement also added lightness. The car tips the scales at just 2180 lb (990kg), which contributes enormously to the driving fun.
The result wasn’t simply an engineering study. A number of measures were taken to enhance the beauty of the original Swedish/Italian design. One of the key factors was enlarging the wheel housings to accommodate the 18×8.5” front and 18×9.5” rear forged wheels.
Perhaps less obvious was the repositioned glasshouse, which saw the cabin moved slightly rearwards. It resulted in a slightly longer hood and front fenders, creating a subtly more sporting silhouette.
“I think we succeeded in merging the new design and technology without losing the character of the original Volvo P1800,” said Ola Granlund, Head of Design at Cyan Racing.
When listing the modifications, it’s almost easier to outline what remains original on the Volvo P1800 Cyan. It’s limited to steel from the original chassis, the hood release mechanism, handbrake and windshield wipers. Everything else is bespoke, including all the exterior chrome trim, bumpers, etc. The exquisite mirrors, door handles and lights are machined from billet aluminum. Even the glass is new, a very expensive but necessary upgrade to the Swedish resto-mod.
And, of course, the Volvo P1800 Cyan was finished in the company’s signature cyan paint, instantly recognizable from its Polestar predecessors and a nod to the company’s racing heritage. Future production models will be available in any color, with a stunning vehicle in a totally different color and interior promised for The Quail debut.
Prices start from around $700,000.
