Marque: Volvo - Company History & Models - Cars By Brand

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.

Strikingly styled, the 480 ES arrived on the U.K. motoring scene in the summer of 1987. With retractable headlamps set within a sloping front and attractive, estate car like rear body work, the model represented a new era for sporting Volvos. Powering the newcomer was a fuel-injected 1700cc overhead cam unit, providing sprightly performance to match the inherent good looks. The car was well-equipped too, with standard-fit items including electrically operated windows , central locking and aluminium alloy sports wheels. From early in 1989, British buyers could opt for a faster still turbocharged version, which also featured anti-lock brakes as standard equipment. The two-litre ES was introduced late in 1992, and this model was renamed SE in 1994. Although the 480 was discontinued 10 years ago, enthusiasts feel that the styling still has a fresh feel today. Certainly these cars stand out in a crowd . Interest is already increasing in this individualistic Volvo, yet asking prices are still relatively affordable; buy now.

Volvo’s reputation for building tough, accommodating large cars was further enhanced with the arrival in 1982 of the V6 760. They featured a four speed plus overdrive manual gearbox, or a threespeed ‘plus overdrive’ automatic transmission. Estate versions are added in 1985. The model’s smooth and effortless performance, comfort and carrying capacity (especially in estate car form) were legendary. During 1983, the straight six cylinder, 2.4-litre 760 Turbo Diesel version was added, also the petrol- powered four cylinder, 180bhp 760 Turbo. Low friction four-cylinder 2.3 litre engines powered the 740 line, introduced in the autumn of 1984. Twolitre units were offered from 1987. The frontal styling was softened in the summer of 1989, but the practicality and essential character of these dependable machines remained unchanged. The end of the production road came in 1991, but as with other older Volvos, m a ny are still earning their keep in daily use.

A larger saloon than the PV544, the PV121 was produced from 1957 (the first prototype having been built in 1956) and known as the Amazon. As with so many Volvos through the decades, safety f e atures were seen as highly important, and the new model incorporated such aspects as safety belt mountings in the front and rear, a laminated windscreen and a padded dash top. The Amazons reached British shores in 1962, and, as elsewhere Around the world, gained a justifiable reputation for strength, performance and comfort. Early examples used Volvo’s proven B16 (1.6-litre) four pot, with the c apacity growing to 1.8-litres (B18), then finally 2000cc (B20). Single and twin carburettor versions were offered, for each capacity. In addition to the saloons, highly useful estate car variants were produced; m a ny still in daily use.Amazons hav e a lways been highly respected for their durability and reliability; many are still driven in classic rallying events too, where their legendary toughness shines through.

The ‘Amazon’ range was launched in 1956 and they still make brilliant, versatile buys. The 1965 models boast disc brakes and are the first cars to be fitted with Volvo’s famous orthopedic seat design with adjustable lumbar support; 1967 models have a divided steering column designed to collapse on impact while the 2-litre engine straight out of the new 1966 144 saloon was available on the estate in its final two years. Possibly the most desirable Amazon Estates are the models converted by Rudds of West Sussex – even an estate given the Stage Three ‘Rudds’ ‘treatment’ easily could exceed 100mph. With its early 1950s Chevrolet styling, pioneering approach to safety and quality of build, an Amazon estate remains one of the most practical classics around. Indeed, the first foreign police cars used in the UK were Volvo 221s – what more recommendation do you need?

The Italian styled Volvo Sport (soon to become known as the P1800) was unveiled in 1959, with production starting in 1961. The stylish two plus two fixedhead newcomer (built on the floorpan of the Amazon ) was initially assembled by Jensen Motors Ltd. at Castle Bromwich, with the bodywork produced by Pressed Steel, at Linwood.

Powering the new car was a twin carburettor version of Volvo’s 1778cc four-cylinder engine, developing 100 bhp. These early Jensen-built cars were identifiable by their front quarter (cow horn) bumpers and solid wheels, with stainless steel covers. Production transferred to Sweden in 1963, and the cars were now designated P1800S (S indicating Sweden). Full-width single-piece front bumpers were now fitted. Two-litre engines were installed from 1968, and in 1971 a new variant was introduced. The 1800ES featured fastback/estate car type body, and was highly practical as well as good looking. The P1800 was made famous by the television series The Saint but was discontinued in 1973.

Evolving from the PV444 in 1958, the new PV544 built on the strengths of its illustrious predecessor. However, by contrast with the earlier model, the new car was revised in many ways, and was externally identifiable by a bigger, curved windscreen and a larger rear window. Interior changes included a revised dashboard and a reshaped rear seat. A 1600cc engine was used in the early examples, the capacity being increased to 1800 in 1961. In both cases, single and twin carb versions were produced. Three-speed gearboxes were still used, but a fourspeeder was now available too. Coil spring suspension was employed at both front and rear. Braking was by drums (all round), but front discs were optional on later examples. The PV544 proved to be a reliable and sturdy motor, and provided faster performance than the model it replaced. It made a fine rally car (and indeed even today many examples are still being successfully campaigned in classic events).