VOLVO 164 (1968-1975)

VOLVO 164 (1968-1975)

In the autumn of 1968 Volvo presented the Volvo 164. It was a development of the Volvo 144 but had a more prestige-oriented position.

The principal difference in technical terms was that the Volvo 164 had a 3.0-litre, in-line, 6-cylinder engine under the bonnet, the B30. It had been developed from the 2.0-litre, 4-cylinder engine that was introduced for the 140 Series at the same time, in 1968. From the beginning, the 164 had two carburettors and it was later also available with fuel injection.

This was the first time in 10 years that Volvo was able to offer a 6-cylinder car. The last time had been when the taxis in the 830 Series were built.

However, when it came to cars aimed at private buyers, Volvo had not had a 6-cylinder car for almost 20 years, since 1950 when production of the PV60 ceased.

As far as the exterior of the 164 was concerned, the front had its own styling. The bonnet was longer, to make room for the larger engine. The shape of the front also imparted greater prestige owing to the large grille.

In the interior, the seats were totally different, the materials were more luxurious and leather upholstery could be specified.

The Volvo 164 was produced between 1968 and 1975. Most of the cars produced during the last year were sent to the USA. A handful of estate versions called ‘165' were built by different coachbuilders on private initiative.

MODEL SPECIFICATIONS

Model: 164, 164E

Produced: 146,008

Body: 4-door saloon

Engine: 6-cylinder, in-line, overhead valves, 2,978 cc, 88.9 x 80 mm, 135-175 bhp.

Transmission: 4-speed manual, 4-speed manual with electrical overdrive or 3-speed automatic.

Brakes: Hydraulic, discs on all wheels.

Dimensions: Overall length 470 cm, wheelbase 270 cm.