Volvo 131
The indestructible Swedish icon that brought three-point safety belts to the masses.
- Power
- 85 bhp
- 0–60 mph
- 12.1 s
- Top speed
- 98 mph
- Est. value
- $13k–$19k
About the Volvo 131
The Volvo 131, better known as the two-door Amazon, is a cornerstone of Swedish automotive history, celebrated for its legendary durability and pioneering safety. By 1968, the model had matured into a refined cruiser, featuring the robust five-bearing B18 engine and the world's first standard three-point seat belts. Its 'ponton' styling, penned by Jan Wilsgaard, remains a high point of 1960s Scandinavian design, blending American-inspired curves with European restraint. On the road, the 131 is characterised by its solid, over-engineered feel and surprisingly balanced handling, making it a highly usable and charming entry point into classic car ownership.
Volvo 131 specs
The Volvo 131 produces 85 bhp (63 kW) and 146 Nm (108 lb-ft) of torque. It reaches 60 mph in 12.1 seconds and has a top speed of 98 mph (158 km/h).
| Make | Volvo |
|---|---|
| Model | 131 |
| Trim | 1.8 |
| Years | 1961–1970 |
| Type | Classic |
| Body style | Saloon |
| Country | Sweden |
| Original price | About $2,800 when new |
| Engine | 1.8-litre inline-four |
|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,778 cc (1.8 litres) |
| Induction | Naturally aspirated |
| Power | 85 bhp (63 kW) at 5,000 rpm |
| Torque | 146 Nm (108 lb-ft) |
| Redline | 6,000 rpm |
| 0–60 mph | 12.1 s |
| Top speed | 98 mph (158 km/h) |
| Transmission | 4-speed manual |
| Drivetrain | Rear-wheel drive |
| Weight | 1,120 kg (2,469 lb) |
| Power-to-weight | 76 bhp per tonne |
Typical figures for the standard car; options, markets and model years vary. Where our specs come from
How much is a Volvo 131 worth?
A typical Volvo 131 is estimated to be worth $13,000 – $19,000 (about £9,400 – £14,000).
Its original price when new was about $2,800.
Values are directional estimates for a typical example, not appraisals. Condition, mileage, history and specification all change what a real car is worth. Pound figures use the exchange rate of 3 November 2026. How values are estimated
Volvo 131 rarity in CarSpot
The Volvo 131 is an Uncommon card in CarSpot, with a rarity score of 25 out of 100. Hot hatches and premium sporty cars. An Uncommon card is worth 20 XP.
Each model's tier starts from a 0–100 score based on its value plus its power or production numbers. Once enough players have spotted a model, how often it is spotted can move it up or down one tier. How CarSpot rarity works
Rarity is a collectible game mechanic, not an assessment of real-world scarcity or value.
Volvo 131 fun facts
- The Amazon was the first car in the world to be fitted with three-point safety belts as standard equipment in 1959.
- A 1966 Volvo P1800S, which shares the Amazon's B18 engine, holds the Guinness World Record for the highest mileage at over 3 million miles.
- The name 'Amazon' was originally spelled 'Amason', inspired by the fierce female warriors of Greek mythology.