5k: Drive It Like You Hate It: 1967 Volvo 122S Amazon with SR20DET
The SR20DET was an SR series, 2.0 liter, dual-overhead cam, electronic fuel injected and turbocharged engine from Nissan that was used in the Pulsar, Silvia, Bluebird, 180SX, Sunny, etc. The SR20DET was never officially imported for the US market, but many engines have come in grey market, used or built from scratch in all sorts of hot rods. I’ve never seen one in a Volvo before – but a small turbo-4 seems to make more sense than some big heavy domestic V8 and fits with Volvo’s later turbocharged product lines. Find this 1967 Volvo 122S Amazon with SR20DET for sale in Rancho Cordova, CA for $6,500 via craigslist.
The Volvo Amazon is a slow but cool looking classic in original condition – but this one has seen a number of modifications. Under hood the original B-series 4-banger and 4-speed manual were removed and have been replaced with a Nissan SR20DET and 5-speed manual. The SR20DET makes anywhere from 201-245 horsepower stock, but when opened up a bit it will easily crack 300 horsepower.
It seems odd that the seller doesn’t include a single engine bay photo, as most buyers will want to see what the swap looks like. The single interior photo shows a fair condition interior, but it will need a headliner and some sportier seats if you are going to take advantage of that engine.
The Amazon has had a recently paint job, and while it looks okay in the photos, a thorough in person inspection is always needed with “new” paint.
Enjoy this vintage Volvo advertisement on youtube and learn how to “drive it like you hate it.”
See a better turbocharged classic? email us here: tips@dailyturismo.com
~ cheaper than psychiatry.
Wow. I love this and the price seems great for a car in such good shape (body) but the lack of under-hood photos is such a massive red flag that it almost smells like a scam.
^^this. Scam until proven otherwise. I hope not but…
Turns out this wasn't a scam thankfully, but a legit SR20DET-swapped Amazon that was picked up by one of our regular readers. Hopefully he will share more about the car, either here in the comments, or via email.
Did you find out who bought this!? I would love to come see this in person. I am trying to do the same swap and I have so many questions that just looking at it would answer.
@oszkarbacsi on instagram
To each his own re: the color palette… but the concept / execution otherwise is awesome. Screaming for some minilite-style wheels but otherwise, I approve. Engine bay looks clean, love the interior too. Someone got this thing for a ridiculous steal.