Highlights

Just 32,500 documented miles from new
Totally original example with matching leather interior
Maintained by Hardings of Mousehole
Period Volvo 5-spoke alloy wheels
Chassis and metalwork treated with Lanoguard rust protection

The Appeal

The Volvo 140 Series is a great summary of just how special Volvo classics are. Legendarily enduring and unfussy, these boxy cars became companions for over a million motorists. They gained an impressive reputation for safety from the off, but it's the 145 that cemented them into legendary territory. That cavernous estate interior and angular silhouette are practically unrivalled, and in the 60s and 70s became the defacto 140 in the United Kingdom.

This particular example stands out for its remarkable originality and low documented mileage of just 32,500 miles. The vehicle has been thoughtfully preserved rather than restored, maintaining its authentic character while receiving appropriate mechanical attention from marque specialists. It's a handsome example that'll impress even the most discerning enthusiast.

The vendor says:

"I've owned a lot of cars, and I have had more admiring comments about this car than any other. It's totally original, 32,500 documented miles, as well as an interior, bodywork and engine bay to assist in that verification. It's a beautiful colour and the period Volvo 5 spoke alloys set off a sporty appeal. Its very practical, and very cheap to run, no road tax and insurance around £100 per annum. We've used it to go camping with our new TentBox and puppy, pulling into a campsite amongst the £100K motorhomes strikes quite a contrast, and the nostalgia for the simplicity of the 70's is something to behold. The other aspect of owning an 'Old' Volvo, is that parts are easy to find, quickly, and at reasonable prices."

History and Paperwork

First registered in 1974
3 former registered keepers
Purchased by the current owner in 2023
32,500 documented miles
Maintained by Hardings of Mousehole
Stored in unheated garage and car port during summer
MOT exempt, though has been voluntarily tested intermittently
Last voluntarily MOT expired in January 2025, with only two minor advisories

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The Condition

Small rust spots around wheel arches, rear lights and front windscreen area
These are left unrepaired to "maintain originality"
All panels appear straight and true with a good fit
Period Volvo 5-spoke alloys
Appears in good condition underneath
Chassis and metalwork treated with Lanoguard rust protection
Matching leather interior in very good order
Interior condition consistent with the 32,500 mile reading
Everything working except original radio (powers up but doesn't find stations)
Small tear to rear left-hand side wheel arch leather
Front seats feature adjustable lumbar support

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The Mechanics

1986cc 4-cylinder engine
4-speed manual transmission
Recent work includes:
- New exhaust
- Fresh brake calipers
- Replacement of brake hoses
- New master cylinder (2025)
New front brake calipers haven't bedded in yet
Parts readily available and reasonably priced
Used for camping with TentBox
The vendor notes a "rattle" over uneven road surfaces, this relates to the new front brake calipers, apparently these will ‘bed in’ with use and the noise will disappear
Other than this they remark:
- "The car is standard, non modified, & runs perfectly without any knocks or noises from the engine, and is pretty quick and easily keeps up with modern traffic - it's very comfortable on a long journey, but 65 - 70 is the sweet spot."

BEFORE YOU BUY

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