2021 07 12 CCC Featured External Listing 1978 Volvo 245 Wagon V8 Conversion
This is a Volvo DL wagon whose engine we recognize. Not what we would expect to see but the 5.0 H.O. plate visible on the engine is unmistakably the powerplant of a 1987 – 1993 5-litre Fox body Mustang, as sold on Collector Car Canada a couple of weeks back. With its inimitable, roar of brute force, we submit that this is quite a personality metamorphosis for a formerly sedate family wagon built in Sweden. We think we see a “Diesel” badge on the grille, further adding to the sleeper nature of this tour de force.
CCC Vital Info – 1978 Volvo 245 Wagon V8 Conversion
Odometer – TMU, 5,000 km since engine swap
Engine Info – 5.0L Ford V8
Transmission Info – 3-speed auto. with overdrive
Exterior Colour – Red
Interior Colour – Black
Other features – Euro headlights, Euro bumpers, Volvo Turbo hood, Dual exhaust
Seller – Private
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The original engine is naturally unclear but we are betting it would have been Volvo’s B21A, which would have been good for 100 horsepower when new. The Ford 5.0 H.O. swapped in was rated at 225 horsepower for most of its run in Foxes, implying a complete transformation of this wagon’s performance. There are no details about the transmission beyond “automatic with overdrive” but the Fox’s slush box was an offering with overdrive so this is our educated guess. These Volvo wagons are rear-wheel drive.
The original engine is naturally unclear but we are betting it would have been Volvo’s B21A, which would have been good for 100 horsepower when new. The Ford 5.0 H.O. swapped in was rated at 225 horsepower for most of its run in Foxes, implying a complete transformation of this wagon’s performance. There are no details about the transmission beyond “automatic with overdrive” but the Fox’s slush box was an offering with overdrive so this is our educated guess. These Volvo wagons are rear-wheel drive.
We see exterior features which add to the sportiness of this ride. Flush-mounted Euro headlights usually looked sportier on European cars of this era. This car fits that mould. The eight double-spoke wheels and low-profile tires add to the racer-boy look, as does the flat hood procured from a Volvo Turbo of the day. European slimline bumpers are more streamlined than the North American standard offering while dual exhaust pipes out back, tinted windows and a European front licence plate finish off the sporty look.
Inside, the appointments appear stock, from the four-spoke Volvo steering wheel to the thick-cushioned and beaded leather bucket seats up front, as well as the trademark era Volvo headrests. We see power windows as an option to add on to the auto transmission and the interior from seats to carpets and switch gear appears in very good condition for a 43-year-old car.
The engine bay looks like one treated to a recent swap, exceptionally clean. The aforementioned 5.0 H.O. name plate wears a clean finish, notable as these are susceptible to paint peeling and chipping. The cold air intake is likely good for an increase in the V8’s power. Generally, speaking the engine room appears tidy, with few signs of wear.
Find this 1978 Volvo 245 Wagon V8 Conversion in White Rock, BC on Craigslist for $13,000.
Our thanks to CCC follower Luke for showing us this one.