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THE ITALIAN COACHBUILDER SITE

Volvo 3000 GTZ

1970Coachwork by Zagato

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.

08 / FROM THE ARCHIVE

Archive

References held in the vehicle dossier. Their inclusion does not establish that every historical claim has been independently verified.

ReferenceSource 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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