Description:

A 1966 Volvo 122S Chassis number 201755
Engine number 02509

The Volvo 120 was launched in 1956 and established Volvo's long-lasting brand values (including early safety features such as door padding and standard seat-belt anchors). The 122S, developed from the earlier car, was part of the 120 series that ran until 1970 and featured 2-door coupé, 4-door saloon and estate variants. Its designer was Jans Wilsgaard who produced an attractive form that revolutionised Volvo style from the ugly-ducklings that had proceeded the car affectionately known to all as the 'Amazon'.

This lovely example of a 1966 122S was originally the property of Harley Antill, the son of the Australian importer of Volvo cars and acclaimed rally driver, Peter Antill. It came into the possession of its second and current owner, renowned motoring journalist, Max Stahl, forty-seven years ago in September 1967! As one might expect it has been lovingly and well maintained to a high standard undergoing body repaint and restoration on no fewer than three occasions in 1975, 1985 and 2005. The original engine of 1,780 cc was rebuilt to two litres in 1990. Gearbox rebuilt in 2000, suspension in 2011. In 2013 the twin SU carburettors were rebuilt along with the fitment of new air filters, brake booster and other work. Sitting on impressive 14" x 5.5" wheels the car is accompanied by three of its original 4J x 15 steel wheels.

This, now rare, and most interesting vehicle is available for purchase by a new owner for the first time in almost half a century, Max Stahl has been an active Australian motor sport celebrity since the 1960s, when he raced Australia's fastest 48-215 Holden, achieving a top speed of 123mph on Bathurst's Conrod Straight together with a Touring Car lap record at Queensland's Lakeside circuit.In rallying he navigated several leading drivers, including "Gelignite" Jack Murray, Bob Holden, Harry Firth and nine-times NSW Rally Champion, Barry Ferguson.
In 1967 he navigated John Keran (Volvo 122S) to victory in the New Caledonian Safari to become the first Australian crew to win an International Rally.
He co-drove a 280SE Mercedes in the first London-Sydney Marathon (1968) then reported on the 1977 Marathon for his regular network of Australian radio stations. He was also Editor of Australia's leading motor sport magazine, "Racing Car News", a position he held from 1964 to 1987.
In 1985 he took part in the charity fund-raising "Bourke to Brketown Bash", which led to his co-founding and organising the "Great Endeavour", the "Kidney Kaper", then in 1992 the "Camp Quality Caper", which raised over $3-million in its 11 year life.1992 also saw the start of his major creation, "Targa Tasmania", which attracts hundreds of classic cars and their owners from all over Australia each year.
During all this time he continued to drive his well maintained 122S in Historic Club tours and events and shows.The well-known Volvo was the subject of a story written by his journalist son, Michael, in "Wheels" magazine, which attracted Australia-wide interest.

Accepted Forms of Payment:

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Shipping

All lots must be paid for and collected by 4pm AEST Monday 8 November. Unfortunately we cannot arrange shipping from this location, however we can arrange the goods to be removed to our rooms at the buyers expense.

25 October 2014 19:00 ACDT
Melbourne, Australia

Theodore Bruce Auctioneers & Valuers

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