*** Interested parties should note, this vehicle was subject to a CAT D insurance loss in 09/2009 ***

Highlights

One of only 240 manual T-5R models produced for the UK market
Very original car in Classic Cream Yellow
Sympathetic upgrades by specialist Shemtek Automotive
MOT to November 2025 with no advisories
Displayed at Goodwood and Brands Hatch BTCC events
Very usable enthusiast-owned classic saloon

The Appeal

Enter a Volvo showroom in 1995 and you’d be hard pressed to realise that things for the robust Swedish motoring concern had fundamentally changed. The firm’s new T5-R looked a lot like a regular 850. But it wasn’t.

As BTCC fans would quickly discover whilst watching a boxy Volvo estate circumnavigate Brands, Thruxton and other UK circuits, the T5-R was anything but a regular Volvo. 250bhp, front wheel drive and warbling turbocharged 5-pot soundtrack all made this a proper sports saloon and unlike any other Volvo.

This Cream Yellow saloon was bought by the current seller to recall that classic era because his grandfather used to have one. It has the desirable manual box and has been thoroughly enjoyed. It arrives with us in great condition. This is a usable car rather than show queen, but there is scope to take it there if you wish.

The car has received a long list of modifications by specialist Shemtek Automotive, all of which enhance the performance and drivability. It comes to market with recent service and a lengthy MOT with no advisories.

The vendor says:

“To describe the GUL i would say it has been a pleasure. I have never owned a car like the gul that has put a smile on my face that much the day I bought it. Driving it home through the town centre, seeing the reflection in the shop windows and saying that’s my car! It has been a blast to own and is definitely going to be sad to see it go. As mentioned it is a dream to drive. The koni shocks and Eibach springs give it a complete different feeling on the corners. You actually feel connected to the road. And that catback is enough to emphasise that 5 cylinder burble without annoying the neighbours or giving you a headache. With that K&N panel filter you can certainly hear that throaty 5 cylinder.

“Now the question is, what do i love most about the GUL? And that would be the retro feel/style. Being in the 21st century with both a tape deck and multi disc CD changer feels so cool! And that yellow colour! Definitely a marmite colour for sure but I think it’s the best colour available on the T-5R. The nickname for it from myself and my friends is the custard slice. Trust me when I say this but I hope the new owner can talk for hours without getting bored as this car is definitely a conversation starter!”

History and Paperwork

First registered 16th August 1995
Acquired by current keeper in 2022
MOT valid until 1st November 2025 with no advisories
Previously recorded as a Category D (now Category N) in 2009
Paperwork includes invoices from Volvo for service items and replacement trim
Service carried out in May 2025
This included spark plugs, oil change, coolant, and K&N air filter maintenance
Displayed at Volvo600 event in Yorkshire,
Also featured at Goodwood, and Brands Hatch for super touring and BTCC events
Stored in workshop with trickle charger when not in use
No service book but vendor advises car has been regularly serviced

The Condition

Classic Cream Yellow paintwork in good condition for age and mileage
Paintwork shows some fade to panels as is typical of this shade
Some bubbling under the paint, cracking/chips, and areas of faded paint
Bodywork is straight and generally tidy for age of car
Underside is structurally solid with areas of surface rust
No structural advisories on current MOT
Five spoke anodised gret factory alloys in generally good condition
Front nearside wheel shows some kerbing
Interior features original suede accents, walnut gear knob/trim and leather seating
Headliner has started to drop at the front with evidence of previous repair attempt
Gear knob has a crack on the top
Armrest wobbles in lifted position due to a broken plastic hinge
All instruments and switchgear function correctly including the sunroof
Driver's side mirror moves up/down but not left/right (can be adjusted manually)
Factory features include built-in baby seat in the rear armrest
Original 6-disc CD changer in the boot remains functional
Electric and heated front seats
850 over mats fitted

The Mechanics

2.3-litre turbocharged B5234T5 250bhp engine
Desirable 5-speed manual transmission
Engine modified with numerous performance upgrades by specialist
List of upgrades below
All upgrades fitted by Volvo specialist Shemtek Automotive
Power steering pump is noisy but doesn't leak and steering feel remains consistent
No reported running or driving issues except as noted
Recent service in May with list of work detailed above
No advisories on current MOT

Modifications advised by seller:

Snabb short throw shifter kit
Snabb intake pipe
K&N air filter for OEM airbox
Japanifold
D088 radiator
D088 intercooler
D088 RIP kit
18T turbo
850R "White" Injectors
850R clutch
Jetex Catback
Aluminium subframe mounts
M4.4 Ecu conversion
302mm brake upgrade
Eibach lowering springs
Koni Shocks
Poly gearbox mount

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..

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