The options that are on a 123GT are also often put on regular Amazons. How can you recognize a real 123GT? In fact, that’s the type number.
Vin
The legend of the type number (the first part of the chassis number) is as follows:
| First digit | Chassis type | 1= Sedan 2= Station |
| Second digit | Number of doors | 2= Four-door or five-door 3= Two-door |
| Third digit | Engine type | 1= B16A, B18A or B20A 2= B16B or B18D 3= B18B or B20B |
| Fourth digit | Model | 2= Standard 3= Special 4= Export 9= Assembly abroad |
| Fifth digit | Gearbox | 4= Four-speed (M40) 5= Four-speed gearbox with overdrive (M41) 6= Automatic (BW35) |
| Sixth digit | Steering wheel | 1= Left-hand drive
2= Right-hand drive |
The 123GT was the only Amazon model to have an overdrive as standard.
This makes the fifth digit decisive for whether it is an original 123GT or not. An original 123GT has type number:
Left-hand drive = 133351
Right steer = 133352
As an exception, there are the 123GTs that were assembled in Halifax in Canada. These have type number 133951 and letter M (built in 1967). These were also slightly different and had no mislights at the front and rear and instead of mirrors on the front screens one mirror at the driver’s door. However, this Canadian 123GT was equipped with a lock differential (LSD). There are also 123GTs assembled in Belgium, these also have type number 133951.
Great information.
I was told i I have a 1967/68 ? Volvo 123 GT Canadian (wing tags 123 GT and Volvo Canadian emblem on body) . If M denoted built in 1967 then what letter denotes years 1968 /68 /70 ? I was also told that is was one of the last of 500 to be assembled /built in Halifax Nova Scotia before discontinuation of the 120’s. I am retired and starting my investigation into the amazons.
Any help will be appreciated.
That potentially is a rare car! The best source for further reading is the great website Volvo Amazon Pictures.
In particular the Type Designations page.
Contact me I have found a I believe Cdn 123 GT in a wreckers . Most has been taken buy I pulled the Steering Wheel. 250-317-9514
Thanks I will have a look !