So Long, Old School Volvo Flagships: From the Iconic 164 to the Electric ES90
Luxury Volvo Models Through the Years - Ranging from the 164 to ES90
Ditch the Jar, Here Comes a New Ch talent!Dare to defy the norms of Swedish premium luxury: The forthcoming Volvo ES90, an electric crossover-fastback, is set to shake things up in the market, swiping a seat from the conventional sedan and station wagon. Fans of classic Volvo's rugged sedans and stadiums may bemoan, but let's take a stroll down the long history of Volvo flagships!
What's a Rolls-Royce for the anxious? Back in 1968, Volvo served it up rich - the Volvo 164, a powerful sedan with a grandeur, chrome-adorned grille, fit for the Scandinavian elite. A pioneer in many ways, 164 was Sweden's first post-war flagship that dared to be different.
Fast-forward to the 1970s and the Volvo 265 came to light, not as a usual station wagon, but a chic lifestyle truck with a safety image. Mercedes followed suit with their station wagon (W123).
Redefining that So-Called Luxury
Since the late 50s, Volvo has been aiming to redefine luxury, particularly for the United States, the world's largest premium market. Jan Wilsgaard, the chief designer of the era, finally succeeded in crafting a distinctive brand design with the 140/160 series, which sported long-lasting, only-slightly-fancy lines, devoid of the bling-bling of Lincoln or Cadillac.
The 140/160 series marked the start of a Volvo image: Indestructible, safe family vehicles embodying virtually unbreakable quality. The top model, 164, initially managed a nerve-wracking 96 kW/130 PS with its 3.0L six-cylinder gasoline engine. A talent for effortless cruising, and a champion for harmonious social coexistence and environmental consideration were the hallmarks of the Scandinavian enthusiasts.
The Audacious Transformation to 260 Series
The 1975-launched 265 continued its legacy, but added the dashed of elegance. Who would have thought that an estate would be chic for the upper class in the United States? Volvo, that's who!
While station wagons, such as Country Squire, Vista Cruiser, or Station Wagon, were the ultimate family and recreation vehicle in the US, few Americans felt adequately dressed in an estate when going to the Metropolitan Opera in New York. But Volvo changed that with its 265, a symbol of European sophistication, second only to the Mercedes T-Model.
Nothing beats front and rear safety in safety research. NHTSA confirmed it when it designated the structurally identical four-cylinder 240 as its safety research reference model in 1976. This elite, political limousine 264 TE for power players on both sides of the Curtain was both sought after and appreciated.
"Up, Up, and Away" - Volvo's Indomitable Spirit
"Indeed, it can fly!" Volvo famously declared, placing this bold statement under an image of its Turbo flagship ascending into the sky. With its distinctively shaped 700 series under the guidance of Jan Wilsgaard, the company defied the norms, attracted attention, and seamlessly transitioned to electrification.
Lo and behold, the S80, S90, and V90 that followed built upon the successes of their predecessors. The S90 twins introduced in 2016 opted for electrified four-cylinder engines delivering up to 335 kW/455 PS. The anticipated Volvo ES90, shattering with its 500 kW/680 PS, proves that the days of modesty are behind even in Sweden. Worry not, though, for Volvo's commitment to safety and sustainability persists.
illustrations: see overall enrichments
Sources:- ntv.de- Wolfram Nickel- sp-x
- The automotive technology in the motor vehicles industry plays a significant role in shaping the future, as seen with Volvo's transition from iconic flagships like the 164 and 265 to the electrified ES90, symbolizing a fusion of luxury and environmental consciousness.
- The finance sector underscores the value of such innovations, as the upcoming Volvo ES90, boasting a powerful 500 kW/680 PS, aims to redefine the luxury transportation landscape, potentially stealing a share from conventional sedan and station wagon markets.
- The transportation industry, particularly the luxury segment, is witnessing a transformation with Volvo's daring move to redesign and redefine luxury, starting from the 140/160 series in the late 50s and continuing with robust offerings such as the 265, S80, S90, and V90, all embodying the brand's commitment to safety, sustainability, and competitive power.
