Volvo PV444

Before World War II Volvo built its reputation on solid, boring, middle class saloons but realized it would have to broaden its appeal post war to encompass smaller, more mass market cars. The PV 444 emerged in 1947; a new fashionable styled two doors that looked like suspiciously like a downscaled 1942 American Ford. Its lively performance soon gained it a good reputation and before long Volvo was making sales in-roads into the American market where it was appreciated for its quality, reliability and sporty handling. The first ones had 1414cc engine, the last 1583cc, twin carbs and 85bhp.

The 444 became the 544 in 1958 with five seats, a one piece screen and a new style dashboard. You could have 3 or 4 speeds and a single or twin carb (Sporty) engine. From 1961 onwards, the cars gained the up rated five bearing engine of the more modern ‘Amazon’ models, which in 85bhp form took the top speed up to the magic 100mph.

There was only one body style variant on the ‘PV’ theme, but the Duett estate first seen in 1953. It was a dual purpose vehicle that could be used as either a van or a passenger carrier. Durable and fun to drive, not something that could really said of certain later Volvos, these no nonsense vehicle are now very fashionable classics, appreciated for their durability and wonderful period styling.