In 1956, a prototype of a new passenger car from Volvo was presented. It became known as the Amazon in Sweden and the 121 and 122S in export markets, the latter denoting a more sporty derivative. However, despite its substantial appearance, all Amazons were surprisingly fleet of foot - this was one of the most sporty European saloons of the 1960s. With its elegant, timeless styling the Amazon broke new ground for Volvo - and for passenger cars as a whole. . Includes the history of Volvo before and after the Amazon. . Development and production of all Amazon derivatives from 1956-1970, including the 121, 122S, 123GT and all of the estate editions. . Biographies of key Volvo personnel, including the company's first designer, Jan Wilsgaard. . The Amazon in motorsport, plus driver biographies: Tom Trana, Sylvia Osterberg and Carl-Magnus Skogh. . Full buying guide along with tips on tuning and modifying, including rally preparation. . An insight into what the press thought of each Amazon derivative, with pages also devoted to how the car was marketed in period. AUTHOR: Richard Dredge bought his first car, a Triumph Herald 1200, when he was just sixteen years old. At twenty-one he purchased a Vitesse, and as with the Herald, he completely rebuilt the car. Since then he has also acquired an Alpine A610 - but no Volvo Amazon. Yet. The first book Richard ever wrote was the history of Volvo. A regular contributor to motoring magazines such as, Practical Classics and Classic Car Weekly, Richard also writes for Auto Express, Sunday Times. He runs www.firstcar.co.uk for new drivers. For more information, visit www.richarddredge.com SELLING POINTS: . A comprehensive history of the Volvo Amazon, one of the most sporty European saloons.. . Full production histories, specification details and a full buying guide with tips on tuning and modifying are included. . An ideal resource for owners, or anyone with an interest in the evolution of these classic cars. . Biographies of key Volvo personnel are covered as well as Amazon in motorsport and driver biographies. . Superbly illustrated with 250 colour photographs. . Richard Dredge is a well-known contributor to motoring magazines and runs www.firstcar.co.uk for new drivers. 250 colour