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With the relocation of production, the quality problems were solved and the Volvo 1800 S became the epitome of solidity and reliability worldwide. In the USA, it was even seen by many media as a sensible alternative to the Italian super sports cars. Racing events such as the 24 Hours of Sebring and Daytona in 1966 and the enthusiasm of customers, including Irv Gordon, who reached the three million mile mark with his Volvo 1800 S, cemented this reputation.
The Volvo 1800 S was also known on South African roads as a sports car suitable for everyday use and even off-road. Volvo built the Amazon sedan, which shared technical components with the Volvo 1800 S, in a factory in Durban until 1971. The car’s roof construction could support five times the vehicle’s weight and was even said to withstand elephant kicks.