Nothing to see here, folks…just a 550 hp LS powered Volvo 1800!
Darreld is a financial advisor in Washington state and as such, he is always looking for the best places to invest money. You know…stocks, mutual funds, bonds etc. They key is to look for the best return on investment.
I think Dareld found the holy grail of investments: Build an LS V8 powered Volvo 1800! This is guaranteed to yield an excellent return as it will be measured in smiles per dollar. That is more secure than US bonds!
Now if any of you “must be all original” purists are going to get your knickers up in a twist you should know the following:
- It is Darreld’s car
- This started as a far gone 1969 1800 body only good for parts.
If anyone still have an issue with a modified classic, refer back to item 1. above.
The LS engine with aluminum heads does not add much more than 60-70 lbs to the front and can be easily offset by relocating battery etc. Also, FIVEHUNDRED AND FIFTY HORSEPOWER LS V8 justifies anything. The engine is backed by an automatic but can also be manually shifted with paddle shifters.
Dareld had the glass custom made as he wanted modern style flush mounted glass. That was a three year project. Also, note lack of vent windows.
The car will be full of technology like ABS and traction control but also Bluetooth controlled AC and sound system, track monitoring systems and more.
Get this. Computer controlled integrated spoiler in the rear truck lid! Speed and braking will determine it’s position. Long way from soggy SU carburetors, huh? Classy!
It takes a village: When you build a car of this caliber, it is important to have the right team. Darreld did a lot of work himself but is quick to point out that he engaged Ron Sutton Race Technology to design the chassis. It will basically mimic the suspension of a Trans Am race car.
Also, Rhom Innovations was helpful when it came to build some of the more challenging modifications.
Of course the egg crate grill will contain a fully chromed prancing moose!
There should be a national holiday dedicated to “I am getting the car back from paint” day as that is one of the greatest highlights of any build.
I can only imaging the time spent walking around this while Darreld making wroom-wroom noises.
I think this car will run circles around that Cyan thing, just saying!
Thanks Darreld for sharing your car with us, we look forward to the finished product.
Make sure to Follow Darreld and the build on Instagram @darreld72
By Rolf Åström
Photos: Darreld