40 yrs. of ownership: ’63 Volvo 544
The “Drive It Like You Hate It” campaign referred to the 122S but it is totally apropos for a 544. Loyal 544 owners are often teased that their trusty classic looks like a shrunken old Ford. Nothing could be more far from the truth. These Volvos were actually sport sedans dressed in a housecoat instead of an evening gown. The 544 feels anything but stodgy. It is stoutly constructed and at 2100 lb., pretty light on its feet. It feels quite nimble and the 95 horsepower B18D is enough to move it along nicely. It was considered peppy for its day. So peppy, it was actually faster to 60 than many sports cars. These were very successful rally racers with numerous first place finishes. From a collectors viewpoint, it isn’t going to make you rich. So treat this gently used 544 with respect but get it out on the road and stretch its legs. Today’s featured 544 has been the cherished ride of one owner for over 40 years. That owner sold it recently to a Vietnam Vet who embarked on the task of installing A/C in the car. The Vet, unfortunately, passed away suddenly leaving the 544 without an owner. It looks like a great car and the seller, who seems to know something about cars, thinks it may even be original paint. If it isn’t, it still looks nice. The bottom is said to be as clean as the top too. Now the interior is a bit bright and we don’t believe it is the original pattern or color. But there are kits that replicate the correct interior if this green bothers you. The seller is asking $17,900 and that is top of the market for one of these. These are not rare but they are rare in great original condition. If it turns out to be so incredibly original in the flesh, it might be worth negotiating a more reasonable price point. Click here for the eBay auction.