Highlights

Rust-free Japanese import first UK registered in October 2022 by the vendor
We’re informed that it is to be supplied with a fresh MOT
In very good overall condition and said to be driving really well

The Appeal

When two 850 estate cars rolled up to the BTCC start line at Thruxton in April 1994, onlookers and fellow drivers were aghast to see such a car compete. Use of the estate had been a closely guarded secret and it proved one of the most successful PR exercises in BTCC history.

Here we have a 1996 850 R which was imported from Japan in October 2022. A life spent on salt-free roads has ensured its a beautifully preserved example, in fantastic original condition. The vendor reports that it runs and drives exactly as it should, with amazing performance from its warbling five-cylinder engine which sings through a stainless steel exhausts system. With a fresh MOT until August 2024, this Volvo is ready to enjoy.

Volvo recently announced the end of estate car sales in the UK, which has understandably caused quite a stir amongst petrolheads. They’re the company that made boxy estates cool, and the car that achieved this was the 850 R. Don’t miss this excellent opportunity.

The History and Paperwork

Right-hand drive
Imported from Japan in October 2022
The vendor is the first UK owner
Accompanied by some Japanese service history
V5C present
Original Japanese book pack and English Haynes service manual
Original VHS promo cassette
The vendor states that they will submit the car for MOT testing prior to collection by the new owner
MOT until August 2024
The odometer indicates 87,595 miles
Currently fitted with a MPH odometer and a KMH unit is supplied also - suggesting it has been replaced at some point

The Interior

Leather / ‘Amaretta’ synthetic suede seat upholstery
Currently equipped with a Sony double DIN unit - although the original Volvo / Dolby unit is supplied also
All the veneers are in fine condition
There are a couple of splits in the dashboard
Equipped with heated sets
All the switchgear is in good order
Supplied with a spare instrument cluster
All the carpeting looks to be in good order
The headlining is sagging
The boot is in great condition and complete with parcel shelf roller blind

The Exterior

Attractive red paintwork
No notable damage besides osm lacquer peel in places
All the bodywork looks really straight
The plastic trims are all in good order, and only lightly faded in places
The glass and light lenses are in great condition
While they exhibit some marks, the alloy wheels are not excessively kerbed
All looks immensely good underneath
Equipped with a sunroof which still opens correctly

The Mechanics

2.3-litre turbocharged T5 engine
Front-wheel drive
Automatic gearbox
Stainless exhaust system fitted while still in Japan
When the vendor acquired the car, they fitted a new cam belt, water pump and they changed all the fluids
Said to be running and driving exactly as it should
The vendor reports a slight exhaust rattle when cold, which soon disappears once up to temperature

Summary

For those seeking a well preserved original 850 R, this imported 1996 estate would be a great choice. Solid, in great condition and reportedly driving well, it would make a fun daily driver, or else something special for weekend road trips.

Notice to bidders

This item is sold on an ‘As is Where is’ basis. The condition of this item is the opinion of the seller and may differ from your own opinion. Photos and listing descriptions are for guidance purposes only*.** Car & Classic do not warrant listing accuracy. Full inspection is recommended. Viewings are at the seller’s discretion. Buyer is responsible for delivery and collection of any item purchased.*

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UK-registered cars and motorbikes on Car & Classic are run through an online HPI check. On the HPI report, this vehicle shows no insurance database markers for damage or theft. It is currently not covered by a finance agreement.