For fans of the Porsche 911 or Defender, there’s almost an embarrassment of riches when it comes to restoration options. But there are plenty of other classic car models that have their passionate fanbase and deserve more recognition from the customs world.
One such nameplate we weren’t expecting to see revamped any time soon was Volvo’s P1800ES sports wagon from the early ’70s. Typically known for its luxury models and innovative safety tech over the decades, the Swedish marque didn’t do anything game changing for the powertrain but nevertheless the shooting brake has amassed a bit of a cult following in recent years. One such company in the Netherlands was paying attention, and now gives us one of the coolest restomods we’ve seen that had nothing to do with Porsche or off-roading.
Scandinavian Shooting Brake Revival
Dutch design studio Autoforma — the restomod arm of Niels van Roij Design — saw an opportunity in Volvo’s quirky two-door wagon that only lived for the 1972 and 1973 model years. With just over 8,000 units ever produced, the ES variant already carried an air of exclusivity before anyone started cutting up donor cars.
The P1800ES holds a special place in automotive history beyond its rarity. Originally styled by Pietro Frua and Pelle Petterson at Carrozzeria Ghia, the shooting brake launched Volvo into global consciousness — helped considerably by Roger Moore piloting the coupe variant in The Saint. And one P1800 famously crossed 3 million miles, a record that still stands.
Subtle Updates, Maximum Impact
Autoforma’s Norrsken treatment doesn’t reinvent the wheel, which is the point. The vehicle was given widened carbon fiber wheel arches, while revised ride height and track changes give the car a planted stance that the ’70s engineers could only dream about. LED lighting elements replace the dated originals, and the custom exhaust work hints at the changes under the hood.
Speaking of which, Autoforma transplants Volvo’s T5 turbocharged five-cylinder engine to keep things in the family. Upgraded suspension geometry, a contemporary transmission, and a beefier braking system with additional cooling complete the mechanical transformation. The original dashboard architecture remains intact, though refined with body-color metal, brushed aluminum, or wood veneer options depending on the trim level.
Three Flavors of Swedish Cool
Buyers can choose from three distinct trim packages. The Forward Fashionista represents the most aggressive interpretation, featuring the carbon aero elements and T5 powertrain as standard equipment. Meanwhile, the Modern Marvel and Heritage Heaven variants take a more conservative approach with period-correct enhancements and carefully curated materials.
It’s worth noting that Autoforma has already made waves with one-off projects like the Ferrari 550 Maranello-based Breadvan Homage and the Silver Spectre Shooting Brake. However, the P1800ES marks the studio’s first foray into limited series production, though “series” might be generous given the output.
Spec Sheet
Model: Autoforma Norrsken (based on Volvo P1800ES)
Engine: Volvo T5 turbocharged five-cylinder (Forward Fashionista trim)
Body: Widened carbon fiber fender flares, LED lighting, custom aero elements
Chassis: Upgraded suspension geometry, modern steering system, enhanced braking with cooling
Interior: Refinished original dashboard, re-engineered seats, full-length center console
Production: Limited to 5 units per year
Lead Time: Approximately 18 months for first example
Starting Price: €300,000 (~$356,000)
Pricing & Availability
With production capped at just five examples annually and a starting price around €300,000 (~$356,000), the Norrsken isn’t trying to undercut the competition. Autoforma expects approximately 18 months to complete the first build once sufficient orders are secured.
Recap
2026 Autoforma Norrsken Volvo P1800ES
Dutch design studio Autoforma is bringing back Volvo’s cult-classic P1800ES shooting brake with its Norrsken restomod, featuring widened carbon fiber bodywork, a modern T5 turbo five-cylinder, and upgraded chassis dynamics. With only five builds per year at €300,000 a pop, it’s one of the more intriguing alternatives to the usual Porsche and Land Rover restomod options.
