Originally produced in 1961, the Volvo B18 engine has stood the test of time. These engines are famed for their reliability and longevity in use, in fact the world’s highest mileage car at the time of writing this is a Volvo P1800 with a massive 3,039,122 miles on its original 1800cc engine. In 1968, the 1800 engine was phased out and replaced with the B20, a new 2000cc variant using exactly the same design. The engines were used in a number of popular Volvo models, including the 120 Amazon, P1800, and 140, as well as Volvo military vehicles. Alongside the release of the B20, Volvo introduced the B30 6 cylinder for use in the 164 model.

Although the design of the engines is quite aged, with its cam-in-block design operating the overhead valves by means of push rods and rockers, these B series engines have been known to rev to around 6500rpm without issue, and also survive the punishment of motorsport in both race and rally. With these engines being so simple there is a myriad of upgrades that can be applied if the situation calls for it, over the years Scholar has rebuilt lots of these engines to varying levels of tune from marine use to rally spec B18’s to be pushed to their limits on a gravel stage.

The engine has proven popular in rallying in the classic 120 ‘Amazon’ models, where its solid durability is unrivalled. Recent success for Scholar saw a rally spec B18 engine built by us, successfully complete the 2024 Paris-Peking endurance rally.

What we can offer for these engines includes:

• Big valve conversions
• Cylinder head porting for improved flow
• Lightening and balancing and rotating components
• Upgraded cam shafts
• Forged or standard pistons

Despite their age, the continued popularity and longevity of the engines means that many parts continue to be readily available.