In the mid-1960s, Corgi Toys, a pioneer in the British die-cast model industry, introduced one of its most iconic and cherished models: the 258 The Saint’s Volvo P1800. This model wasn’t just another toy car; it was a meticulously crafted replica of the stylish vehicle driven by Roger Moore in the hit television series “The Saint.” The show, which ran from 1962 to 1969, captured the imagination of viewers around the world, and Corgi Toys capitalized on its popularity by creating a miniature version of Simon Templar’s distinctive car, complete with the Saint logo emblazoned on the front bonnet.
The Volvo P1800 itself was a departure from Volvo’s traditional reputation for producing safe but somewhat staid vehicles. When Volvo unveiled the P1800, it broke the mold with its sporty and elegant design, challenging the notion that safety and excitement couldn’t coexist in a single car. The P1800 was not only reliable—a hallmark of Volvo’s brand—but also boasted a record-breaking durability with a specific example clocking over 3,000,000 miles, a testament to its robust 2-litre 4-cylinder engine and sturdy transmission.
The design of the P1800, with its oversized grille, long bonnet, and sculpted wings, gave it a sporty demeanor that stood out among its contemporaries. Conceived as a prototype in 1957 and released into the motor trade in 1961, the P1800 symbolized Volvo’s response to the booming sports car market of the post-WWII era. Despite stiff competition from other legendary cars of the 1960s, such as the Jaguar E-type and the BMW 507, the P1800 carved out its niche, partly due to its unexpected role in “The Saint.”
The story of how the Volvo P1800 became associated with “The Saint” is a fascinating tale of missed opportunities and serendipity. Initially, the show’s producers sought a Jaguar E-type for the lead character’s car, but were rebuffed by Jaguar’s leadership. Volvo seized the opportunity, and the P1800 became inseparable from the image of Roger Moore’s suave, charismatic Simon Templar. This clever piece of product placement helped the P1800 achieve global recognition, endearing it to a broad fan base and securing its place in automotive and television history.
Corgi Toys’ replica of The Saint’s Volvo P1800 was a marvel of detail and accuracy, from the iconic Saint logo to features like opening doors and jeweled headlights. It wasn’t merely a toy; it was a collectible that appealed to fans of the show, car enthusiasts, and collectors alike. The model’s packaging, adorned with artwork from “The Saint,” further enhanced its collectibility and appeal.
The enduring popularity of Corgi’s 258 The Saint’s Volvo P1800 reflects the model’s significance beyond its role as a plaything. It embodies a unique convergence of automotive design, television history, and toy manufacturing innovation. For collectors, it represents a tangible connection to the nostalgia of 1960s television, a symbol of the era’s automotive elegance, and a piece of Corgi Toys’ legacy in capturing the zeitgeist in miniature form.
In essence, the Corgi Toys 258 The Saint’s Volvo P1800 is more than just a die-cast model; it’s a piece of cultural history. It celebrates the groundbreaking design of the Volvo P1800, the allure of “The Saint,” and the ingenuity of Corgi Toys in immortalizing this perfect blend of style, performance, and pop culture. For enthusiasts and collectors, it remains a cherished emblem of an era when television and automotive design collaborated to create something truly memorable.
Price Guide
Very fine examples in original box with very fine box £100-£150
Other complete examples £40-£80 depending on condition
Cars and figures out of packaging £10-£30
Mint examples are really whatever a collectors wants to pay but £200 plus.
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