Marque: Volvo - Company History & Models - Cars By Brand
Volvo
Collaboration between Assar Gabrielsson, Gustav Larson, Henry Westerberg, Helmer Mas-Olle and the Swedish bearing manufacturer SKF resulted in the first Volvo car, the first production version of which was completed in 1927. Incidentally, the name Volvo comes from Latin, meaning ‘I roll’ (the name had previously been owned by SKF, but unused).
Open (OV4) and closed (PV4) versions of the…
Volvo 140
Fast Facts
- Produced:
1966-74 - Bodywork:
Two-door saloon, four-door saloon, five-door estate - Engine:
Overhead-valve (pushrod), in-line four-cylinder.
1778cc: 85bhp; S (twin carburettor), 115bhp
1986cc: Single carburettor B20A, 90bhp; Twin carburettor B20B, 100bhp; fuel-injected, 130bhp - 0-60 mph:
S , 12.5 sec
B20A, 14 sec
B20B, 13 sec
Fuel-injected, 11 sec - Top Speed:
S , 100+ mph
B20A, 95 mph
B20B, 100+ mph
Fuel-injected, 105+ mph - MPG:
1778cc: 20+ to 28 mpg
1986cc: 18 to 26 mpg
Introduced in 1966 (and making a U.K. debut early in ‘67), the 144 and twin carb 144S were soundly constructed, reliable large saloons featuring many standard safety features such as a collapsible steering column, a built-in roll-over bar, anti-burst door locks, twin circuit brake hydraulic systems and a fly-out- windscreen. By the spring of ‘68, two-door versions and five-door estates had been added to the line-up. The estates featured vast, flat-floored load compartments and uprated rear suspensions. An additional row of seats (for children) could be specified where required. The engine capacity was increased to two-litres from 1968, and fuel-injected GL versions arrived in 1970. Built-in safety beams were incorporated within the doors from 1972, and impact absorbing bumpers from 1973. The 140 Series models were discontinued in 1974, to make way for the new 240 Series. Survivors are becoming rare in Britain, and are still highly regarded for their long-term dependability.
Volvo 164
Fast Facts
- Produced:
1969-74 - Bodywork:
Four-door saloon - Engine:
Overhead-valve (pushrod), in-linesix-cylinder.
2979cc: Twin carburettor, 145bhp; fuel-injected E, 160bhp; TE, 175bhp - 0-60 mph:
Twin carburettor, manual, 10 sec
Fuel-injected E, 9.5 sec - Top Speed:
Twin carburettor, manual, 110 mph
Fuel-injected E, 115 mph - MPG:
16 to 23 mpg
Arriving in Britain early in 1969, the imposing 164 was sold in saloon form only. The car was instantly recognisable by its square grille incorporating vertical slats, and by its distinctive engine note. For under the long bonnet was Volvo’s straight six B30 engine. This employed the same bore and stroke dimensions as the four pot B20 units. The rear wheels were driven, via a four-speed manual gearbox (with optional overdrive) or a three-speed automatic transmission.
The 164 was comprehensively equipped with standard-fit leather upholstery, reclining front seats, twin circuit brakes, and power-assisted steering. De Luxe versions additionally featured a sliding sun roof. Performance was effortless, and the cars were noted for their comfort over long distances. Fuel-injected 164E models arrived in 1971, and in 1973 a new version was the 175bhp TE, with automatic trans (only), air conditioning, a headlamp wash/wipe system and a four-speaker radio/stereo tape player.
These executive expresses were discontinued in 1974; survivors in Britain are exceedingly scarce. Most interest appears to lie in older 140 cars to be honest.
