Description
The PV544 is a rare model in the UK, as they were never officially imported here, or even made in right-hand drive. MFF 786 started life as a 'Special I' in Sweden, and came to the UK on holidays in the 1970s. Engine trouble near Stoke on Trent meant the Swedish owners made their way home, leaving the car here.
The first UK owner then replaced the original B16 engine and 3 speed gearbox, with the improved B18D twin carb engine with 4 speed M40 gearbox, which it still runs today.
This PV has enjoyed regular and consistent use over the years, including a road trip back to Sweden to visit the Volvo museum in recent years. As such, mechanically it's in great shape, and passed MOT in August 2024.
The interior is mostly original and in very good condition - new carpets were obtained from Sweden, but otherwise it's original and in great shape. The original temperature gauge has been replaced with an electric one - the originals always fail! A Volvo voltmeter and clock are fitted on an extra panel below the dash.
The bodywork is the obvious area where it could be either improved, or enjoyed as is with the patina it wears. It had £1300 worth of welding earlier this year, so is structurally sound, however the sill repairs are visible on close inspection.
The front wings have some rust below the headlamps, and the paint has had numerous touch-ups over the years. I can send photos or videos of any part of the car required, both on top and underneath.
From cold, the engine starts instantly on full choke, and within a couple of minutes will settle to a near silent idle once off choke. The engine pulls well, with no smoke or obvious leaks. I've had a few B18s and this is by far the quietest I've come across! The exhaust does have a slightly sporty note when accelerating - due to only having one silencer to improve ground clearance.
It stops straight and sharply - with better brakes than my 1966 Amazon.
The tyres are a few years old but in good shape, with plenty of tread and no cracks or perishing showing.
The car is in Lockerbie, South West Scotland. I don't expect the car to have any issues driving to a new home anywhere in the UK, but I can also quote for delivery - just ask!These PVs date from the time before Volvo went boxy. The American influence in the styling is in all the little details - they even make the Amazon models look a little bit plain!
With the upgraded B18 engine and 4 speed M40 gearbox, this PV is a very useable classic, keeping up easily with modern traffic. They make fantastic classic rally cars, due to how strong they are.
Due to their age, they are also exempt from all ULEZ/ CAZ areas, so could make a brilliant daily driver with character in the city.
