A Nostalgic Reverie: The 1968 Volvo 164
In the midst of global chaos and uprisings in 1968, a sense of tranquillity prevailed at Volvo's headquarters in Gothenburg, Sweden. The focus was resolute and unwavering, culminating in the launch of their prestigious new model, the 164. A symbol of elegance and status, the 164 marked a strategic and well-calculated move for Volvo, appealing to a niche of consumers that yearned for a unique blend of luxury and practicality.
The Genesis of the Volvo 164
The origins of the Volvo 164 can be traced back to the late 1950s when plans for a grandeur Volvo model with a commanding V8 engine and an imposing vertical grille were conceived. However, the changing landscape of the automotive industry, particularly the rising popularity of compact cars in the US, led to the premature end of this project. It was not until the unveiling of the 140 series in 1966 that the idea of introducing a straight-six-cylinder engine into the 140 body was birthed. The idea was to create a car that seamlessly married prestige with compactness, an unlikely pair that Volvo believed would cater to a specific demand in the market.
Aesthetics and Design
Jan Wilsgaard, Volvo’s chief designer, employed a unique approach by integrating the chassis of the 140 series with the front aesthetics of the 1950s 358 project. In an homage to Volvo's heritage, the iconic iron mark logo was prominently placed diagonally, similar to Volvo's debut car in 1927. A major structural alteration included extending the 140 chassis by 10cm from the windscreen forward to accommodate the newly crafted straight-six engine known as the B30. This 3.0-litre capacity engine boasted a power output of 145hp, thanks to its twin Zenith-Stromberg carburettors.
Interiors and Fittings
Inside, the 164 differentiated itself with its opulent appointments, a far cry from the more modest 140 series. Thick woollen fabric adorned the seats, with the rear seat ingeniously designed for two people, featuring a drop-down armrest in the centre. A year into its production, the 164 was further upgraded with standard leather upholstery, integrated halogen-type auxiliary lamps, headrests, and for the US market, additional features like electric windows, an electric sunroof, air-conditioning, and tinted windows.
Reception and Evolution
When the American magazine Car and Driver evaluated the Volvo 164 in its July 1969 issue, it painted a picture of the type of clientele Volvo was wooing with its new model. Professionals with a taste for luxury and a penchant for something unique were the main targets, and this seemed to be hitting the mark. This theme was reiterated in an American advert by Volvo which coined the 164 as, "The Luxury Car That Shows You Have More Than Money." Throughout its lifespan, the Volvo 164 was subject to continuous refinement, introducing features such as electronic fuel injection from the model year 1972 onwards.
Final Thoughts
The Volvo 164 signifies a noteworthy chapter in Volvo's history, not just because of its standout features, but also its aspirational approach to a burgeoning segment in the market. Its production may have ended in 1975, with its successor the 264 already in the pipeline, but its legacy carries on. The 164's daring marriage of luxury and practicality, its attention to customer desires, and continuous development speaks volumes of Volvo's innovative spirit. The 1968 Volvo 164 serves as a testament to the brand's bold journey and as an inspiration for future automotive innovations.
-Ed
1968 Volvo 164
