Highlights
- Largely factory standard 1995 model in desirable Olive Green metallic
- Well kept car that spent much of its life in Japan
- Comprehensive service history with recent maintenance
- New catalytic converter and hoses replaced in May 2024
- Fitted with KW suspension and new engine mounts in 2024
- MOT to May 2026
The Appeal
If you look up ‘sleeper’ in the dictionary, it says ‘Volvo 850 T5-R.’ Like certain medieval Spaniards and their questioning ways, nobody expected dowdy Volvo to practically invent the uber dog wagon.
The T5-R was a bit of a punt by Volvo, partly to spice up its homely image. It worked, helped no doubt by the BTCC estate racing car. Where other makers might have been tempted to make the T5-R look as quick as its drivers discovered it was, Volvo went understated. Hence its sleeper status.
This 1995 Olive Green car was first registered in the UK in September 1995, but within a few days, it was in Japan, where it lived until 2008. Repatriated in the same year, it has been here ever since, alighting with the current seller last year. He has invested heavily in the car, building on the extensive work undertaken by previous keepers, which you can check in the history file.
Recent work has included fitting a KW suspension package, new engine mounts, replacing the catalyser, new heater matrix and replacing hoses as required. The car has been recently serviced and the brake fluid changed.
The photographs confirm how well this car presents. There are inevitably a few areas to note, but nothing that seems to stray beyond ‘cosmetic.’ The MOT confirms the structural provenance - it runs to May 2026 with minor advisories.
The T5-R is one of modern classic motoring’s most entertaining and practical cars. This one looks very tempting.
History and Paperwork
- First registered in UK on 27th September 1995
- Exported to Japan on 2nd October 1995
- Reimported and re-registered in the UK between 19th May 2008 and 5th August 2008
- UK maintained and MOT'd since 2008
- Cambelt changes at 92,000 miles in May 2010 and at 158,000 miles in January 2020
- New steering rack and adjustment in January 2021
- Full service with engine compression test in July 2023
- KW suspension, heater matrix replacement, and engine mounts in September 2023
- Hunter alignment in October 2023
- Recent full service in May 2024
- Catalytic converter, hoses replacement, and brake fluid change at the same time
- Factory handbooks and service book
- 2 keys and fobs
- Large history file as shown in photos
- Includes handwritten servicing and MOT notes
- MOT valid to 2nd May 2026 with advisories to note
The Condition
- Factory standard aesthetics inside and out and finished in popular Olive Green metallic
- Paintwork presents well in photos with some light marks and points to note
- Light scuffs and marks to note in photos
- Small areas of some window trims show light deterioration in photos
- Front bumper shows light scuffs to offside corner
- These areas do not detract from the overall impression
- Bodywork also well kept with panel edges, arches and sills in good order
- Underside shown in photos and no structural advisories on MOT
- We are told that the sunroof and dash drains run freely
- Five-spoke black alloy wheels in good order with some light kerbing to note
- Matching Pirelli Zeros tyres with plenty of tread
- Factory standard and original interior including Volvo sound system
- Black leather with suede trim in good general condition as shown
- There is a hole in the driver’s bolster and steering wheel suede shows wear
- Carpets, door cards, veneers and switchgear present well
- Roof lining presents well with vendor reporting that there is no sagging
- Factory spare wheel in boot as shown
- Specification includes sunroof and electric front seats with memory operation
The Mechanics
- 2,319cc B5234T5 5cyl turbocharged 250bhp engine
- 4spd automatic transmission
- Recent full service and engine compression test
- New catalytic converter and hoses replaced in May 2024
- Brake fluid changed in May 2024
- KW suspension and new engine mounts installed in September 2023
- New steering rack and adjustment in January 2021
- Well-maintained car with extensive service and maintenance history as shown
- No reported running or driving issues
- Advisories to note on current MOT
- Recently checked over by vendor’s mechanic with a positive report
This sale is subject to the Car & Classic Terms and Conditions. By bidding and/or making an offer, you also agree to the following:
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✓ This vehicle is “Sold As Seen”, on an “As Is Where Is’ basis and without warranty. Photos and descriptions are solely for guidance purposes and it's customary to carry out a full inspection of the vehicle prior to purchase for your own peace of mind.
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