The Volvo PV544 was one of the Swedish automaker’s most successful post-WWII production cars. This example made in 1965 has many things going for it including low mileage, excellent condition and a background in motorsports.
Specifically, the car won bronze at one of the Swedish national rallies in 1968. Other than that, the model was marketed as a family hauler first and foremost, despite having only two doors. Compared to its predecessor, the PV444, it offered more legroom in the back row and enough space for three passengers (up from two).
The PV544 also had a performance version (see video). It came equipped with the same 1.8-liter engine, but benefited from a dual-carburetor setup instead of a single carb. As a result, the engine pushed out 91 PS (90 hp / 67 kW) and took the car from zero to 100 km/h (62 mph) in around ten seconds. This made it comparable to some Porsche 356 sports cars of the era.
The example on sale used to be owned by Carl-Gustaf Bäckström, a Swedish rally driver who originally had it prepped for racing. Subsequent owners continued where he left off, so the car is still eligible for participation in classic FIA rallies, the seller claims. It comes equipped with a roll cage, an extra fire extinguisher, a rally computer and bucket seats complete with racing harnesses.
The mileage is being reported as 15,400 km (9,569 miles), but the seller openly admits that the true number may have been lost to time. The current bid is just €18,600.
