Volvo Amazon 1961–1970 car dimensions: 4450 mm long, 1620 mm wide and 1505 mm high. Unladen weight is 1,100 kg. Boot space with the seats up is 390 litres.
The cabin features a padded instrument panel and sun visors for safety, with three-point seat belts standard on the front seats and fittings provided for the rear. Individual front seats have adjustable backrests in three positions that lock automatically, while the rear seat offers comfortable space for passengers. Upholstery uses durable vinyl or fabric that matches the exterior, with rubber floor mats that are easy to clean. A thermostat-regulated heater and defroster system with fresh-air intake and two-speed fan keeps the interior comfortable year-round. Instruments are clear and grouped for easy reading, and the 2-door version has longer doors plus rear side windows that open at the edge for better ventilation. Front seats fold forward to aid rear access.
The boot is roomy enough for a full set of holiday luggage. A rubber mat covers the floor to protect bags and make cleaning simple. The spare wheel stands upright on one side so it stays accessible without unloading everything.
Payload is listed around 440 kg. The solid monocoque body and conventional suspension suit everyday family and light-duty use, though no factory towing ratings appear in the period specifications.
The cabin feels roomy and practical with individual front seats that adjust for height, length and backrest angle, plus lumbar support on later cars. Seats use foam cushioning and hold you in place through corners. A high-capacity fresh-air heater and defroster with thermostat keeps the interior warm and the windscreen clear in cold weather. Padded dashboard and sun visors add a soft touch. Rear side windows open for draft-free ventilation. Rubber floor mats and durable vinyl or fabric trim make the space easy to clean.
Three-point front seatbelts standard from 1959
Front disc brakes on S models from 1961, all models from 1964
Engine oil change every 3000 miles, filter every 6000 miles
Front suspension grease points every 5000 km
Padded dashboard and strong monocoque body with roof rollbar
Gasoline fuel with efficient overhead-valve engine
The Amazon runs on gasoline and is noted for good fuel economy thanks to its modern overhead-valve engine design. The B18 unit from 1961 delivers solid performance while remaining thrifty on longer runs.
Servicing is straightforward by design. The front suspension needs greasing at just five points every 5000 km. Engine oil changes come every 3000 miles with the filter at 6000 miles. Gearbox and rear axle oils last longer between changes.
Safety stands out with factory three-point front seatbelts as standard from 1959, a world first. The body uses a welded monocoque with closed box sections and a roof rollbar. Padded dash and sun visors reduce injury risk. Later cars add dual-circuit brakes and a collapsible steering column.
Keeping the car means watching for rust in sills, wings and footwells despite factory protection. Parts remain available and the simple mechanical layout makes home maintenance realistic. Regular lubrication and oil changes keep the durable engines running for high mileages.
Length 4450 mm, Width 1620 mm, Height 1505 mm, Wheelbase 2600 mm (Amazon 1961–1970)
Sources: manufacturer data, 1965 Volvo Amazon brochure, Volvo Cars/volvoclub.org.uk P130 pages, encyCARpedia and motor-car.net.