1966 Volvo 122 (Amazon)

These were the cars that put Volvo on the map in the US. They weren't particularly stylish, nor were they well equipped, but they were built like tanks and ran forever.

The Amazon was introduced in 1956. It was produced until 1970. During that time Volvo built over 600,000 of them. It's not uncommon to see these

Styling looked more 1950s American than European, which makes sense. According to designer Jan Wilsgaard, the Amazon's styling was inspired by a Kaiser automobile he saw at the Gothenburg harbour.

The car was only called the Amazon in Nordic countries. Just before Volvo launched the Amazon the German motorbike manufacturer Kreidler introduced a moped called the Amazone. Kreidler had registered the name and claimed the sole right to it. A deal between the companies allowed Volvo to use the name Amazon in the Nordic markets but not elsewhere. To most of the world, this car was the 122.

The Amazon was the car that gave Volvo its reputation for safety. Among other things, it was the first mas produced car to offer seat belts as standard equipment.

This 122 is a nice original example. The seller claims that no modifications have been done to the car. It's not perfect, it needs a headliner and door panel, but appears to be in nice enough shape to drive the minute you take possession of it.

Located in Denver, CO, click here to see the Craigslist listing for this Volvo.