Unfortunately, I had to conclude that I need all the resources (time and money) for the time being for the rebuild of the Volvo Amazon combi and therefore made the decision to sell my Volvo 123GT. I have too many future projects. On top of that, my interest in converting to electric doesn’t match this rare car. So few of these have been made that it would be a real shame to convert it.
Huh? A 1969 123GT?
Most of the 123GTs were produced in 1967 and continued into 1968. At the same time as the transition to the B20, the 123GT was dropped as a available model for most markets. Except for Switzerland and Japan, where it was still available. See for example this 123GT sales brochure from 1969.
There are currently 602 cars registered in the 123GT register , of which only 12 were registered in 1969. So that 2% gives an indication of how few were produced in the first place. That it is a real 123GT is also established on the basis of the chassis number and type plate:
On my page ‘How do you recognize a real 123GT?‘ you can read that the fifth digit is decisive whether it is an original 123GT or not. If that’s a 5, then that’s the case.
Of the S-codes on the nameplate, a few are known (source: volvoamazonpictures):
- 5314 = GT edition for the European market
- 5396 = B20B engine with special fan with clutch for Switzerland
- 5575 = Supplement to 5314, left-hand drive car
Unfortunately, the original engine is no longer in it and that fan with clutch is also missing. Fortunately, many of the typical 123GT details are included.
GT Steering Wheel
Overdrive handle, OD light and steering lock
Tachometer
Dash-mount clock ‘Volvo’
Additional lights
There are four lights on the front of the 123GT. Two Hella 162 lamps and two from Bosch. The latter has Volvo covers on/for it.
On a 1969-er there are really only two Hella lamps (and one mirror). The strange thing is that this model has slightly different lamps than the earlier GTs. The 1969-er has lamps with narrow edges.
See also my blog post “Rare Volvo 123GT parts bought“.
Original Emblems / Badges
Front screen
Tailgate
Red mottled interior with reclining seats, headrests and 4x seat belt
B20 engine with double SU
The car also has the improved safety options typical of 1969 and 1970, such as a separate braking system and divisible steering column.
Started the engine for a while. Runs nicely. Was overhauled according to the one I bought it from, but I don’t have any documentation of that. Is put away with a little clean oil on the pistons to prevent stuck.
Drove a small round. The overdrive works!
Why sell?
Given the options and low production numbers, this car can really be called rare. So why sell?
It is a restoration project. In other words, there is (welding) work to make it MOT worthy again and to preserve it for the future.
Unfortunately, this is not a ‘quick fix’. Given the value and prices of a 123GT in good condition, I considered refurbishing it first and then selling it. Unfortunately, I don’t have the opportunity to do that right now.
The rebuild of my electric Volvo Amazon combi is now a priority and I need all the resources (time and money) for that. So that’s why the 123GT goes on sale.
Asking price = Reserved
Again, considering the value of a 123GT in good condition and especially a rare one like the 1969-er with technical improvements, that also says something about the condition of the car. Here are some general overview photos.
Of course, coming to have a look is the best way to get a good impression. Nevertheless, I will try to describe the condition well as far as I have seen the points of interest.
Restoration project
Most of the welding is ‘underneath’, so in theory you would go a long way with repairing those parts and a different right front screen and right front door. At the same time, my experience is that once you start dismantling, cleaning, grinding and welding, you encounter more than you initially hope.
What strikes me is that some parts that are often bad are/seem surprisingly good (e.g. rear panel) and others that are often fine are really bad (e.g. front left box bar for subframe mounting). The car has also been worked on several times in the past and, for example, the front crossbars have been replaced by ones that actually belong on a P1800.
Personally, I think that a total restoration would be the best approach in which the wiring harness is also renewed. I haven’t tested the extra things like reverse heating, extra cooling fan and the (extra) lamps. Maybe it just works, but the way of connecting could be a bit nicer if you ask me.
Do you see the potential of this car? Viewing by appointment. The car is located in North Holland (Sint Maarten). Please contact me by e-mail or call me (+31645376321) if you are interested in the car.
Regards Lars
