2k: Cheap Speedy Swede: 1989 Volvo 745 Wagon Ford 5.0 V8 Swap
The Volvo 700 was launched in 1985 as a planned replacement for the aging 200 series, but the older 200 surprisingly outlived the 700 by a few years before everything was tossed aside for the front drive 850 and the era of rear-drive (aka fun-drive) Volvos faded into history. Volvo enthusiasts call this model the 745, the 4 designating the number of cylinders and the 5 for number of doors, but it is probably more accurately called a 785. Find this 1989 Volvo 745 Wagon 5.0 V8 Swap for sale in House Springs, MO for $2400 via craigslist. Tipped from the original Scot back in August.. Also posted by DoucheMcGee on oppositelock.jalopnik.com
The seller of this 285 humorously says that it is like the one that Jay Leno had built – but what he is referring to is the pair of V8lvo built by Converse Engineering for Dave Letterman and Paul Newman. Puffer? Sure I’ll get a puffer.
This one doesn’t have a puffer, but it does use a fuel injected Ford 5.0 V8, probably good for around 200 horsepower (give or take) and mated to the Borg-warner T-5. The T-5 is the Swiss Army knife of transmissions; it is ubiquitous, flexible, compact, light, but will snap like a twig if you twist it too hard.
See a better V8lvo for less? you know where to email.
Awesome. HUGE fan of the 700 series, having owned 6 (so far…). I'm back down to one, but I'd gladly add this one to my stable if I still lived in the midwest. This engine / gearbox combo should be good for mid 15's at the track, and a 0-60 of around 7 seconds. Both of those times are going to be limited by the stock open-rear end in these cars. Install an LSD or locker and you'll see both times drop by around 1/2 a second. Not bad… for a grocery-getter.
~ i've personally inspected this car and even included the link to craigslist ad in comments on another V8 swap Volvo wagon on August 15th. [ dailyturismo.com/2013/08/5k-lincoln-power-1981-volvo-240-dl-v8.html]
it is, as verified by paperwork, from the shop of Ross Converse and cost well north of $10,000 excluding the base car. it's become a bit rough over the years but is a tremendous starting point. it seems to run alright, although my Volvo/Saab mechanic, Petr, was unimpressed. 5 speed is a huge plus, my AOD is less desirable though still much fun.
You know, I had the feeling I'd seen this car before, but I couldn't find it when I searched – but Scot, you did tip this one a few months back. Post updated above.
-Vince
~ that wasn't necessary at all, Vince. but i do know the car and have chatted with the owner, a very nice fellow. like me, he's got too much stuff and too little time. he is restoring a neat old Airstream and those can eat up your attention. Volvos are my particular brand and V8 swaps featured on Daily Turismo always stir my interest.
Damn! A v8 volvo and an Airstream?!? That's me in my dreams!
Almost a year ago I bid the same amount on a 1998 audi a8 not thinking I'd win it… So now I have that. Not a station wagon, but a v8 and 10 years newer. Parts are super expensive though. I guess I'll keep it for another year or so….