Highlights
- Rare ‘Royal’ LWB model
- One owner since UK import
- Just 52,087 miles indicated
- Torquey 2.9-litre six-cylinder
The Appeal
Coachbuilt by Volvo primarily for diplomatic use, the S90 ‘Royal’ LWB model is a rebadged Volvo 960 with 15cm added into the wheelbase and a high specification bespoke leather interior.
This particular example is even more rare – believed to have been a Swedish diplomatic car used in Japan, thus benefiting from being right hand drive. Presented in excellent condition and with low mileage, this is a fine opportunity to acquire a very distinctive and unusual machine.
The History and Paperwork
- Believed to have been built in 1998 / early 1999
- First registered in 1999
- Very rare – only about 1,100 LWB models were built
- Thought to have been used as a diplomatic car in Japan
- Imported to the UK in 2020
- Owned by the vendor since October 2020
- Stored as part of a large private collection since import
- No current MOT (it expired in August 2021)
The Interior
- Handsome light beige leather upholstery presents very well and seems to be free from notable wear or any rips
- Complementary beige carpets and original Volvo overmats in good order
- Wood veneer appears to be in fine condition, with no signs of cracking or UV damage we could see
- The boot area is finished with dark grey carpet that looks in fine fettle, with no evidence we could discern of staining or damage
- Factory radio/cassette system with boot-mounted CD changer
- Electric windows and door mirrors
- Factory-fitted air-conditioning
- Heated, electrically operated front seats with 3-memory function on driver’s side
The Exterior
- Subtle silver paintwork, which appears to be in good order, with only minor blemishes
- All of the external trim and badging looks to be complete and in fine condition
- The light lenses present well, being clear and undamaged
- The car rides on original 16” Volvo multi-spoke alloys with Pirelli Cinturato tyres that appear to be in reasonable condition
The Mechanics
- A smooth 2.9-litre 24-valve straight-six offers more than 200bhp
- Power is delivered to the rear wheels through a 4-speed automatic transmission
- The engine bay looks clean and straight, with no signs of leaks we could see
- We’re informed by the vendor that the car drives well, with no mechanical issues
Summary
This handsome and luxurious saloon is a true rarity. The S90 ‘Royal’ LWB is one of the rarest and most collectible Volvos from the era. Here we have an example presented in fine overall condition, having been well preserved in a private collection, and showing very low mileage. If you’re after a slice of Swedish splendour, then this could be just the ticket.
Notice to bidders
This item is sold on an ‘As is Where is’ basis. The condition of this item is the opinion of the seller and may differ from your own opinion. Photos and listing descriptions are for guidance purposes only*.** Car & Classic do not warrant listing accuracy. Full inspection is recommended. Viewings are at the seller’s discretion. Buyer is responsible for delivery and collection of any item purchased.
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