Description
The Story Behind a Very Special Volvo 850 T-5R
This isn't just a car for sale; it's the latest chapter in a long-standing automotive passion rooted in a history with one of Volvo's most iconic performance models, the 850. Im helping sell this exceptional 850 T-5R on behalf of my Dad, whose connection with the model began in the 1990s, a time when the Volvo 850 T-5 was a notable presence, even being trialled and subsequently used by UK police forces, and who can forget Volvo’s entry into the BTCC!
My dad's affinity for the 850 started in the mid-1990s when he acquired a pristine black 850 T-5. This car became a cherished possession, and its sale was later regretted as life circumstances changed. The passion was rekindled in early 2013 with the purchase of a Red 850R. This evolved into a comprehensive, near ground-up restoration, a significant undertaking that, while ultimately rewarding, presented challenges with parts availability for the P80 platform and project timelines.
As the restoration of my Dad's 850R encountered further setbacks in 2024, the desire for immediate enjoyment – attending car shows, local meets, and simply taking spontaneous drives – grew. This led my Dad to seek out something special, a car that offered instant gratification. He was alerted to the availability of this particular 850 T-5R, a desirable Japanese Domestic Market (JDM) import. A swift trip to Ireland to inspect the car with a Japanese car import specialist confirmed its appeal, leading to its purchase within a week and delivery shortly thereafter.
Since its arrival, the "Gul" ( Reference to the iconic Cream Yellow) has been enjoyed as intended, gracing shows, meets at various locations, and countless days out. Its exceptional condition, a hallmark often associated with JDM imports due to Japan's climate and stringent inspections, has meant it has deliberately avoided salty roads and has only been caught in the rain on a single occasion.
Recognising the importance of preserving the car's underside, especially given its origin, it has been thoroughly undersealed using a combination of Lanoguard and Dinitrol.
Under the current ownership, the 850 has received meticulous maintenance, including a cambelt change using genuine Volvo parts, a PCV system refresh with genuine Volvo components (a common and crucial maintenance item on these cars), and a full service utilising the correct specification oil and of course genuine Volvo oil filter.
New Air filter, Water pump, Timing Belt, Spark plugs, brake fluid change. All geuine Volvo parts used - Parts Total alone = £1656. 77
The suspension has been renewed with Bilstein B4 dampers all around apex springs, addressing age-related wear. The car sits at exactly the correct ride height as it did when it left the factory.
The wheels, deemed "not perfect" by my Dad, have been professionally refurbished in the correct anthracite, and are wrapped in Bridestone Potenza tyres on each corner.
A cherished "T5R" number plate has also been issued.
Upon purchase, the car was housed securely in my Dad's purpose-built garage. Before being offered for sale, it has spent time with a highly respected Volvo specialist – the same expert responsible for the incredible recommissioning of my Dads 850R. This ensured the T-5R is presented in the best possible condition, with even minor details like the fuel flap alignment being perfected!
This example is highlighted as being completely factory standard and "not messed with," a significant plus for collectors and enthusiasts. This contrasts with the other performance Volvos within the family, as both my Dad and I own heavily modified 850R models, with well over 300BHP each, both are affectionately described as "OE+."
The difficult decision to sell the Gul comes down to practicality. With the Red 850R restoration now complete and ready for use, the T-5R would see limited activity. Furthermore, my Dads impending retirement and plans for extensive travel with the 850R mean the Gul would be used even less, making its sale a logical step to allow another enthusiast to cherish and enjoy this special machine.
The ever decreasing numbers of the 850 T-5R ensures that these are becoming incredibly collectable and this particlaur 850 has covered just over 53, 000 miles, the clocks have been changed since ownership and were swapped by the Volvo specialist, and are now showing correct MPH and not KPH.
The condition of this 850 positions the car as a "unicorn" and worthy of a place in Volvo's heritage collection, due to its exceptional condition and rarity. "literally any inspection" is a positive indicator, offering potential buyers the opportunity to verify the car's condition.
This is believed to be 1 of just 149 Gul - Auto Saloon RHD worldwide!
This Volvo 850 T-5R as a rare, low-mileage, and potentially investment-grade example of a desirable modern classic and would not look out of place in the heart of Volvos hertiage
