Description
Volvo PV544 | 1960
Highlights:
- Imported from California in 1989
- Rally-prepared interior with original rally seats and timing equipment
- Recently restored underbody
- Classic Swedish design with robust B16 engine
- Appealing vintage character
The seller offers for sale this 1960 Volvo PV544, an iconic model that represents an important chapter in Volvo’s history as well as the post-war European automotive landscape. This particular PV544 began its life in sunny California before being imported to Germany in 1989. Since then, it has found a home in Luxembourg, where it has been part of a private collection.
Under the bonnet is the well-known Volvo four-cylinder engine with a displacement of 1575cc, a powerplant revered for its sturdiness and simplicity. While the odometer reads 120,000 kilometers, this mileage is not guaranteed. The car is equipped with a manual gearbox, which is reported to shift smoothly without any unusual noises. The mechanical condition is described as solid, with no starting issues, no smoke from the exhaust, and no abnormal engine sounds. All exterior lights, indicators, and brake lights are functional.
The body and paintwork are considered to be in good condition. The exterior benefits from a underbody restoration carried out five years ago, which helps ensure the car’s structural integrity. Some minor chips or scratches may be present, typical for a car of this age, but overall the paintwork retains its attractive appearance. Importantly, the bodywork shows no record of accident damage.
A standout feature of this PV544 is its rally-oriented interior. The previous owner was a rally driver, and as a result, the standard front seats were replaced with genuine rally seats, complete with original five-point harnesses for both driver and passenger. The dashboard is equipped with rally stopwatches and timing equipment, reflecting the car’s motorsport past. Aside from these modifications, the interior is said to be in good condition, displaying minimal wear and maintaining a clean, orderly appearance. Only minor replacements for small missing or defective parts may be required. Mechanically, the car is described as roadworthy, though it currently lacks a valid technical inspection certificate.
The Volvo PV544 occupies a special place in automotive history. Introduced as the successor to the PV444, it was launched in 1958 and continued production until 1965. The PV544 retained much of the shape of the earlier model but featured significant improvements, including a one-piece curved windscreen, a stronger body shell, and various mechanical upgrades over the years.
One of the PV544’s hallmarks was its reputation for ruggedness and reliability, qualities that endeared it to drivers in harsh climates and made it a popular choice for motorsport. The model was particularly successful in rallying, where its robust engineering, predictable handling, and durable B16 and later B18 engines allowed it to compete effectively on gravel and tarmac alike.
By 1960, the PV544 had gained further refinements over its initial iterations. The 1575cc engine, known as the B16, provided ample power for the car’s modest weight, delivering both practical performance and dependable cruising capability. The PV544’s styling, with its pronounced fenders, high roofline, and “humpback” rear, retained a pre-war influence that distinguished it even as automotive design evolved into the 1960s.
Today, the PV544 is appreciated both as a collectible classic and as an engaging vintage rally car. Its charm lies in its honest engineering, classic lines, and the enduring Volvo reputation for durability. For many enthusiasts, it remains a symbol of a bygone era when cars were built with mechanical simplicity and robust character. This example, with its rally interior and restored underbody, offers a glimpse into the model’s motorsport legacy while retaining the timeless style of one of Sweden’s most beloved cars.
Condition of the Bodywork and Paint
4. Very Good: Small dents or scratches; may require minimal bodywork or paint correction.
Condition of the Interior
4. Very Good: Clean with minimal wear; may need minor replacements for small missing or broken parts.
Technical Condition
4. Very Good: Mechanically solid, with possible minor maintenance required.
Overall Condition
3. Good Condition: May need some mechanical and cosmetic repairs, but can drive.
This item is sold on an as-is basis. The condition of this item is the opinion of the seller and may differ from your own opinion. Photos and descriptions of the listing are for information purposes only.
We encourage all potential bidders to inspect the vehicle before placing a bid. Please contact us by phone or email to schedule an appointment.
All auction cars offered have a reserve price. You have only won the item if the seller accepts your bid.
Price changes and errors reserved. The 14-day right of withdrawal does not apply to this auction.
This car is currently located in Fischbach, Luxembourg.
This car drives, brakes and shifts.
The car has a Luxembourg registration. The buyer is responsible for registration in his own country and responsible for delivery and collection of any vehicle purchased at the auction.
The description of this car is, to the best of the seller’s knowledge, accurate and not misleading. Route 66 Auctions requests a range of detail about the car from the seller and performs a level of due diligence. However, potential buyers must independently satisfy themselves as to the accuracy of the description. We strongly advise potential buyers to view or arrange inspections as well as conduct any research they feel is necessary before committing to bid or buy.
Please note that it is not uncommon for classic or collectible cars to have received cosmetic repairs in the past, to rectify damage or refresh appearance, and this work may be hard to see even upon visual inspection. Unless there is an explicit statement by the seller to the contrary, please assume that any vehicle could have had bodywork or paintwork. Photographs may not reflect the exact true colour or exact full condition of the vehicle. It is a bidder’s responsibility to assure themselves of the colour and condition of a vehicle, including its interior and the existence of any remedial bodywork or paintwork, before committing to bid or buy.
