1968 Volvo 122 Wagon review from North America
"Poor man's classic"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
When I first acquired the car it didn't have rear brakes and had a number of electrical gremlins. After fixing these problems the car was driveable, even after sitting in a airplane hanger for 10 years.
The SU carbs are in need of some serious attention now. I will have them rebuilt soon. Other than that the car is amazingly reliable for being a '68.
General comments?
This is my second 122 wagon. It has been a great car and proved reliable. The engine is very tough and runs like a watch (sounds like one too), although it lacks higher RPM pull, it has enough power for around town driving. The lack of a 5th gear makes this thing holler above 75 mph.
The car feels robust and tight. The ride can be a bit firm, but not to the point of annoyance. Cornering is not good. Lots of body roll. Not a performance machine here, but tons of fun for cruising around town and late night drives out in the country.
In general this is a fun car to drive and maintain. But, please do not try to hot rod these things (I hate it when people do this), buy an Alfa Romeo if you want a sports car.
Recommended Reviews:
  | An old car with modern reliability and performance |
 | A classic that can be used as a daily-driver |
| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | Yes |
| First year of ownership | 2001 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2002 |
| Engine and transmission | B20 Manual |
| Performance marks | 6/10 |
| Reliability marks | 9/10 |
| Comfort marks | 7/10 |
| Dealer Service marks | 3/10 |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 8/10 |
| Distance when acquired | 190000 miles |
| Most recent distance | 210000 miles |
| Previous car | Volvo 240 |
| Date of Entry | 6th May, 2002 |