Test driving Volvo P1800

Finally, went for a test drive today. Quite worrying buying without test driving, as my friend asked me…you didn’t test drive how do you know if you really like it?

Are there any mechanical problem that you will only realized after test driving?

I got worried, so decided to go for a test drive today.

The car is kept clean in the big car porch of the owner. The new plate number has been attached. Car grant for the new plate has been issued as well.

Noted the STATUS ASAL: KENDERAAN IMPORT BARU, PENDAFTARAN 26th May 1966.

Took some photos of the car from 6 different views.

Engine started smoothly with just one try. We waited for 5 mins before I started driving it. Pull up the gear knob and push to gear 1 position to go into reverse. I let go the clutch too fast and engine died. Got too used to my own RCZ clutch feeling and depth.

Restart the car again and this time I let go the clutch slowly. The clutch is much shallower than my RCZ, so I have to get used to it. Letting it go slowly and little by little.

Steering is heavy, that I already anticipated from many readings online. Can’t turn fast, but manageable. Need to prepare and get ready when turning.

Tachometer RPM is not responding. Speedometer only go up till 20mph. Hmm…these two are very crucial info…not cheap to get them repaired or replaced.

The driving experience is pretty OK, but I am just worrying on the 3 main things…or 4 now…

Speedometer
Tachometer (RPM)
Fuel Gauge
Oil Temperature

Anyhow, since deposit has been paid, there is no turning back now. Just more challenges ahead!

By the way, while checking on the doors, I noticed that the Retainer arm rest are missing on both doors. No wonder the handles don’t hold firmly. Will need to order that from oversea. This is how the retainer metal looks like. RM150 a piece.

I also took back home the spokes wheels from the owner just now. Some rusty parts, and glue on the lock. No tyre and no inner tube. I don’t think I am not going to use these wheels, who wanna buy?