But a twin-cam, 24-valve 3.0-litre inline six-cylinder engine from an early '90 Volvo 960 sitting inside the perfect body of a 1967 Amazon two-door wagon is rare even in Sweden. Oh, and the turbocharged six is pushing out 600hp.

To explain how this very interesting Volvo wagon made it from Sweden to Las Vegas isn't a complicated tale. At the 25th jubilee of the Vallåkra Custom Car Meet outside Landskrona, Sweden last summer, Mattias Vöcks's classic Amazon wagon was voted best car to represent Sweden.

The prize was an expenses paid trip for Vöcks and partner (the Volvo) to appear at the SEMA show in Sin City.

 

 

 

 

The judges said: "This Amazon represents true Swedish car-building art with its focus on high build quality and unique detailing. It reflects personal craftsmanship of the very highest order. This is a car that stands out from the crowd while at the same time acknowledging a Swedish motoring icon that turns 50 this year. Finally, the winner truly epitomizes the title of "Sweden's Hottest Volvo" with its 600 horsepower under the hood."

Vöcks, 27, has long been active in automotive circles. In fact, his hobby indirectly led to him earning his living at sports-car manufacturer Koenig.

His most recent creation, a Volvo P1800, aroused considerable attention when it was unveiled. "Volvo is the make that I like most and I have actually customised several Amazons previously.

"It all began when I was given an old Amazon by my grandmother, and it's continued ever since," said Vöcks.