The old-fashioned—yet everlasting—Volvo PV544 |  |
| Affordable Classics - Affordable Classics |
By today’s standards, this car’s performance would be blown into the weeds by a Ford Transit Connect  Sweden was neutral during World War II, so automotive production and design never really stopped, despite raw material shortages. So, Volvo was ready to crank out cars when the guns stopped firing. Ironically, Volvo’s first post-war product, the 1947 PV444, looked very much like a pre-war American car—a 1942 Ford to be specific. On introduction, however, the Volvo was not too badly dated, as the 1946-48 Ford Tudors were dead ringers for the ’42s. Nevertheless, by 1949, the PV444 was already looking long in the tooth and by 1958, when the seemingly unchanged PV544 came out, it looked positively antique. Visual changes were minor (a curved one-piece windshield replaced a flat, split windshield). But, under the skin, the PV544 was different, especially when Volvo introduced the indestructible 1,800-cc, 4-cylinder B-18 engine and an all-synchro 4-speed gearbox. A particularly rigid unibody coupled with a well-located live rear axle and decent drum brakes made for a reasonably entertaining car that was rallied with some considerable success in period. Road & Track was able to get their test car to go 0-60 mph in about 14 seconds—or around a half-second slower than an MGB GT. Top speed was a bit over 90 mph, while 25 to 29 mpg was possible. Much like the VW Beetle, there were few significant changes during the PV544’s long production run. The biggest change came when the car went from a 6-volt to a 12-volt electrical system in 1962. When the Swedes discontinued the car, they anticipated roughly the same reaction their Viking ancestors sparked when they sailed within view of a seacoast town. Volvo even ran ads calling for calm. Fortunately, Volvo owners tended more toward pacifism. And the Duett wagon body style was even more beloved among hippies from Vermont to California—and actually outlived the sedan by four years. Old school, but also spry Inside, the PV544 betrays its 1940s origins. While there’s plenty of headroom, the cockpit is quite narrow, and contemporary super-sized adults will be sitting shoulder to shoulder. In true Volvo tradition, however, the seats are first-rate, even by modern standards. The steering wheel is the size of a trash can lid, and the ribbon speedometer takes some getting used to, as does the lack of a tachometer. The customarily light-colored interiors—some are two-tone—are quite pleasant and durable. Underway, the PV544 feels anything but ponderous. Although stoutly constructed, the car’s 2,100-pound curb weight works in its favor. The car feels quite nimble and makes decent use of its 90 horsepower. By today’s standards, the PV544’s performance would be blown into the weeds by a Ford Transit Connect. Nevertheless, it was considered brisk for its day. In fact, the Volvo was more than one second faster in the 0-60 mph test than the Sunbeam Alpine and the Triumph Spitfire during the same year. As Publisher Martin, himself a PV544 owner can attest, there are few impediments to ownership. The cars are dead simple to maintain, parts are readily available, and with a competent heater and ability to maintain highway speeds, PV544s can be used every day. Beware of the rust monster As usual, rust is the main bugger, although Volvos were among the better-protected cars of the day. Rockers, floors and front fenders by the headlamps are the spots to look at first. On the mechanical side, the B-18 engine might as well have cylinder bores lined with diamonds. With five oversized main bearings and a generally understressed design, they simply never seem to wear out. Synchromesh on early PV544s can be a bit weak, but this is seldom bothersome to anyone who knows how to double clutch. From a collectibility standpoint, there has been a modest demand for Amazons and PVs among college professor types, but there is not enough to spark any spike in values anytime soon. With the best one on the planet probably not selling for more than $10,000, it pays to only look at great cars. You certainly can’t make a $2,000 beater into a respectable car for $8,000. The trouble may lie in actually finding a great example. In places like Portland, OR, a good number of sedans and Duetts are still in daily use, and consequently, finding one without significant cosmetic needs is rather difficult. Nevertheless, cars like the SCM staff Volvo PV544 do exist. Patience in the car search will be rewarded with the experience of owning one of the most endearing of affordable classics. |
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