Volvo Amazon
The rugged, stylish Swede that pioneered the three-point seat belt.
- Power
- 95 bhp
- 0–60 mph
- 12.1 s
- Top speed
- 102 mph
- Est. value
- $13k–$28k
About the Volvo Amazon
The Volvo Amazon, marketed as the 122S in export markets, is a cornerstone of Swedish automotive history, renowned for its legendary durability and safety innovations. In 1959, it became the first production car to feature three-point seat belts as standard equipment, a design Volvo famously shared with the world for free. The 122S was the performance-oriented trim, featuring the twin-carburettor B18 engine that provided a spirited driving experience compared to the base 121. Its 'ponton' styling, inspired by 1950s American design, remains timeless, while its robust mechanicals make it a highly practical and reliable entry-level classic today.
Volvo Amazon specs
The Volvo Amazon produces 95 bhp (71 kW) and 145 Nm (107 lb-ft) of torque. It reaches 60 mph in 12.1 seconds and has a top speed of 102 mph (164 km/h).
| Make | Volvo |
|---|---|
| Model | Amazon |
| Trim | 122S |
| Years | 1958–1970 |
| Type | Classic |
| Body style | Saloon |
| Country | Sweden |
| Original price | About $2,800 when new |
| Engine | 1.8-litre B18D inline-four |
|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,778 cc (1.8 litres) |
| Induction | Naturally aspirated |
| Power | 95 bhp (71 kW) at 5,400 rpm |
| Torque | 145 Nm (107 lb-ft) |
| Redline | 6,000 rpm |
| 0–60 mph | 12.1 s |
| Top speed | 102 mph (164 km/h) |
| Transmission | 4-speed manual |
| Drivetrain | Rear-wheel drive |
| Weight | 1,100 kg (2,425 lb) |
| Power-to-weight | 86 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 Amazon worth?
A typical Volvo Amazon is estimated to be worth $13,000 – $28,000 (about £9,400 – £21,000).
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 Amazon rarity in CarSpot
The Volvo Amazon 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 Amazon fun facts
- The name 'Amazon' could only be used in Sweden due to a trademark dispute with German motorcycle maker Kreidler; elsewhere it was sold as the 120 Series.
- Volvo engineer Nils Bohlin invented the three-point seat belt for the Amazon, a safety feature estimated to have saved over a million lives since its introduction.
- The Amazon was so robust that it became a successful rally car, winning the European Rally Championship in 1963.
