Description
Volvo 262C | 1978
Highlights:
– Original California car with dry-climate history
– Rare coupe styled by Bertone with V6 and automatic transmission
– Documented 63,900 miles with Dutch registration
– Original interior with beautiful leather upholstery
The seller offers for sale a 1978 Volvo 262C, a luxury two-door coupe derived from the Volvo 260 series and distinguished by its Italian-influenced design. The vehicle is powered by a 2.7L PRV V6 engine mated to an automatic transmission and has covered 63,900 miles—verified through documentation. The car spent its life in California before being imported to Europe, benefiting from the region’s dry climate and minimal exposure to rust. It is currently registered in the Netherlands and located in Belgium.
The bodywork presents in good condition. The roof finish is described as looking nearly new, the paint retains good gloss, and the alloy wheels remain in clean, original condition. While minor scratches or imperfections are possible, no serious body damage or corrosion is noted. All chrome trim and external fittings appear complete. The car is equipped with power steering, which was standard on this model.
The interior is finished in original tan leather, a hallmark of the 262C’s luxury status. The seats show minimal wear, especially considering the age of the car. The dashboard and instrument panel remain clean, and the cabin retains a distinctly 1970s premium atmosphere with wood accents and ample sound insulation. The overall presentation of the cabin is very tidy, and all basic functions are reportedly operational.
The 262C was produced by Volvo between 1977 and 1981, and was coachbuilt by Bertone in Italy. It was based on the Volvo 260 platform, but featured a sharply raked windscreen, lowered roofline, and unique greenhouse design. Aimed at the emerging personal luxury coupe market, the 262C was positioned to compete with models like the Mercedes-Benz SLC and Cadillac Eldorado. The partnership with Bertone brought a distinctive European flair to Volvo’s otherwise conservative design language.
Fewer than 7,000 units were produced worldwide, and only a small number were originally delivered outside the U.S. The V6 engine—developed jointly by Peugeot, Renault, and Volvo—offered a smooth and refined driving experience, though later known for requiring diligent maintenance. Most cars were finished in metallic silver with a vinyl roof, but variations existed depending on market and year. The model’s unique appearance and limited production have made it a niche collectible, particularly among Volvo enthusiasts.
This example benefits from the dry Californian climate, which has preserved its underbody and bodywork well. The seller notes no accident history and states that the car drives as it should, with smooth gear changes and no unusual engine or transmission noises. The vehicle has passed technical inspection and is ready for use. The seller also remarks that the Volvo 262C is a “very special Swedish car with Italian design,” highlighting its dual heritage and enduring appeal.
No major defects are listed. Paint is in good condition with minor age-related imperfections. The interior is original with light wear. All electronics and lights function as expected. Power steering is fitted, but no other technical upgrades are mentioned.
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
4. Very Good Condition: Shows only minimal wear and is ready to drive at any time.
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 Limburg, Belgium.
This car drives, brakes and shifts.
The car has a Dutch 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.
