Highlights

Rare T5-R specification in iconic Cream Yellow
Japanese import, reported to be exceedingly solid
Recently fitted cam belt, front brakes and front tyres
MOT valid until 26th January 2027
Copy of original Japanese export certificate included

The Appeal

Made globally famous by its legendary exploits in touring car competition, the Volvo 850 T5-R is one of the most celebrated fast estates of the 1990s. With its turbocharged five-cylinder engine producing 240 bhp and its unmistakable Cream Yellow livery, the T5-R was a limited-production machine that combined Scandinavian understatement with genuine pace. Today, these cars enjoy a devoted and growing following, and good examples are increasingly sought after.

This particular T5-R was imported from Japan in late 2024 by the current owner and is now fully registered on UK plates. Japanese-sourced examples are prized for their preservation, and this one is no exception; the underlying structure is reported to be in excellent health despite the paintwork having dulled over time. Some mechanical attention is needed to the rear brakes and tyres, and there are a handful of minor items to attend to, but this Cream Yellow T5-R represents a compelling opportunity to acquire one of the 1990s' most characterful performance cars.

Key Information

Mileage: 124,000 km displayed (odometer inoperative; original Japanese export certificate records 119,000 km in 2012; estimated actual circa 130,000 km)
Country of registration: United Kingdom
Technical inspection status: MOT valid until 26th January 2027 with one advisory for tyre age
Technical specs: 2.3-litre five-cylinder turbo petrol, four-speed automatic
Paperwork: Copy of original Japanese export certificate included, two keys, invoices accrued since arrival viewable in the gallery

The Detail

Imported from Japan in November 2024 and now fully registered on UK plates
New cam belt recently fitted as part of a service
New front brakes and front tyres fitted
Rear brakes require attention: rear discs are pitted, and the nearside rear brake is binding slightly
Rear tyres also require replacement
The vendor reports the car starts and runs well, though the starter motor occasionally sticks briefly, believed to be due to lack of use
All panels are reported to be straight and rust-free
Paintwork has dulled to some extent and would ideally benefit from a full respray, according to the vendor
The vendor describes the interior and seats as being in very good condition for the car's age, with minor age-related wear
The vendor states the original wheels are in very good condition
The offside rear door handle is slightly sticky
Steering rack housing is slightly damp with a possible small leak from pipes
The odometer is inoperative and stuck at 124,000 km; the speedometer reportedly functions correctly
Reported to be clean and solid underneath

BEFORE YOU BUY

This sale is subject to the Car & Classic Terms and Conditions. By bidding and/or making an offer, you also agree to the following:

✓ The seller is registered as a private seller which means consumer rights stemming from EU consumer protection law do not come into effect. However, you are still covered by Car & Classic’s own Terms and Conditions..

✓ We request that a non-refundable fee be paid if you are the lucky winning bidder at auction or if your offer is accepted Please refer to our helpful FAQs and T&Cs for specific rates.

✓ 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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or delivery. Importing vehicles may result in additional customs duties and import taxes so it's worth checking beforehand. It is the bidders responsibility to confirm import eligibility prior to purchase.