THE VEHICLE AT A GLANCE
Model dossier
- Production period
- 1970
- Body style
- Coupé
- Engine
- Volvo inline-six
- Type
- One-off
- Production
- 1
- Seats
- 4
THE PEOPLE BEHIND THE CAR
Coachbuilding, design & conversions
PRICE & SALES RECORD
Vehicle value
- Original price
- Not documented
- Latest recorded sale
- Not documented
01 / THE STORY
History & context
The Volvo 3000 GTZ is a unique 4-seater coupe that combines Swedish engineering with Italian design flair, created by the legendary Carrozzeria Zagato. Built on the mechanical foundation of the Volvo 3-liter, the 3000 GTZ was a bold departure from Volvo’s typical production models, showcasing the potential for sporty elegance within the brand’s portfolio. This one-off creation was designed by Giuseppe Mittino, who brought a touch of Zagato’s signature style to the Swedish automaker’s solid platform. The design of the 3000 GTZ is characterized by sharp, dynamic lines and a muscular stance that immediately communicates performance. The front of the car is dominated by a distinctive two-piece bumper, featuring vertical elements that house the position lights. This design element, while functional, also adds an aggressive edge to the car’s appearance, aligning with the sporty character of the vehicle. One of the most innovative features of the 3000 GTZ is the headlights, which are equipped with eyelids that rise when the car is in operation. This not only adds a futuristic touch but also enhances the vehicle’s aerodynamic profile and overall aesthetic. The Volvo 3000 GTZ was showcased as a unique prototype at the 1971 Geneva Motor Show, drawing attention for its striking design and technical originality. Zagato had previously displayed a similar car at the 1969 Turin Auto Salon, offering a glimpse into the direction the project was heading. While only one specimen of the 3000 GTZ was ever made, it remains an important moment in the history of both Volvo and Zagato, demonstrating the possibilities when Swedish practicality meets Italian passion for design. As a rare and unique creation, the Volvo 3000 GTZ is highly regarded by automotive enthusiasts and collectors, a testament to the vision of Giuseppe Mittino and the craftsmanship of Zagato. Its sleek and innovative design continues to capture the imagination of those who appreciate the blend of performance, luxury, and artistry.
02 / TECHNICAL IDENTITY
Specifications & construction
Production & construction
- Production
- 1
- Production type
- One-off
- Body material
- light-metal body
- Mechanical platform
- Volvo 164-series
Engine & performance
- Engine configuration
- Volvo inline-six
- Specification notes
- TECH 2026-09-21 — Zagato specialist history directly identifies the 3000 GTZ as based on Volvo 164-series chassis/mechanics with a six-cylinder powerplant, a light-metal body and four-seat packaging. The often-quoted 190 hp refers to a proposed/tuned Volvo Penta option in the checked source, so no exact power is structured.
Dimensions & accommodation
- Seats
- 4
Design & manufacture
- Coachbuilder / Body Builder · Documented
- Zagato
- Manufacturer · Documented
- Volvo
- Designer · Documented
- Giuseppe Mittino
06 / EVENTS & AWARDS
Events & awards
No events or documented awards are currently recorded for this vehicle.
07 / THE VEHICLE IN DETAIL
Photo gallery 8 photographs
Show 2 more photographs Show fewer photographs
08 / FROM THE ARCHIVE
Archive
References held in the vehicle dossier. Their inclusion does not establish that every historical claim has been independently verified.
| Reference | Source type |
|---|---|
| Zagato Cars – 1970 Volvo 3000 GTZ www.zagato-cars.com | Specialist zagato history |
| Carstyling design archive – Volvo GTZ 3000 Zagato carstyling.ru | Design archive |










THE CONVERSATION
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