In the early 1980’s quite a few manufacturers wanted to get into the rally racing game, and Volvo was one of them. Naturally they needed to produce a car that had some kind of chance of fitting into that scene. So, they came out with a turbocharged 240 that made just a tick over 150 horsepower and about 175 ft lbs of torque. This was sort of the “base” for the special edition racing versions that would come out shortly after with double the horsepower and torque. Many of these non-race cars were well optioned, comfy, and even got about 24 mpg, which isn’t too bad considering the car was shaped like a brick. Volvo has never been known for their aerodynamics after all. The video below is from 1983, and it brags about acceleration, turbo power, and effortless, exclusive motoring. Oddly enough, you can’t really knock it, because the car does in fact do 1 wheel peels like a boss and fly through the air like the General Lee. What’s not to love?
Can’t see the video? Here is the link: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3-ZvVwviyvI
Years ago I passed up on a dirt cheap 242 Turbo Coupe. Its one of those cars I regret not getting as it was cheap and hoontastic.
They really do look quite fun! Some of the super rare race editions in 1983 apparently had 340 hp and a 5-speed! That would make me laugh like the village idiot the entire time I’m sitting behind the wheel. Under the hood there is even room for a turbo and two superchargers. Nasty.
Yes, the “flathood” Group A. Sadly they were very detuned when they made it to the USA.
Colon Powell has a 240 wagon with a chev 350/auto…that’ll git!
or was it a sedan….