1980 Volvo 264 V8 – Today’s Tempter

By: Alex Affat, Unique Cars magazine

Date: 27.11.2019

Rebuilt 308 with Turbo 700 gearbox, good body, nothing to spend

Volvo built its reputation on its sturdiness and safety; engineered to great extents in its Swedish homeland which required toughness from its cars as well as the ability to withstand extreme weather and temperatures.

The Swedish brand excelled in their various safety features, but many of their offerings were seen as overpriced and characterless in their day. The 264 is a true classic Volvo; it was tough, safe and boxy – but its boxiness had a confidence about it. We reckon they’re still a good looking car!

In GLE trim, it was loaded with features and standard equipment, and an excellent fit and finish largely avoided the "overpriced" label.

It had disc brakes at all four corners, rack-and-pinion suspension; coil-sprung  strut and damper suspension up front and a coil sprung live rear yielding an excellent and comfortable ride with great ability to soak up heavy bumps. The 2.6lt V6 was a reliable unit, though not exactly awe-inspiring with its 104kW.

 This 1980 Volvo 264 GLE no longer bears its original humdrum V6, with its owner replacing it with a Holden 308 V8 coupled to a Turbo 700 four-speed auto and Eaton truetrac limited-slip differential.  The engine and differential were fully rebuilt 20,000kms ago; and the chassis looks to have 143,000kms on it – inferred from the listing.

The swap looks very well done, with the car as a whole looks to be in great condition. It’s got its factory steel sunroof, power steering and electric everything in functioning condition.

It’s certainly something different, and might appeal to some of you enthusiastic lateral thinkers out there!

It’s based in New South Wales, and is listed for $22,000.

Check out the full listing here!

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