Volvo 740
Volvo 740 is, according to many, more than just a car – it is a milestone in Swedish automotive history and an icon of safety, reliability, and engineering excellence.
Launched in 1984, the 740 quickly became popular among families and car enthusiasts. The model was particularly appreciated for its combination of robust construction, advanced technology, and classic, timeless design.
During the development process of the Volvo 740, the goal was clear: to create a car that would be both practical and reliable. The vehicle also complemented the 700 series and was designed as a single-step model that was affordable for its target audience.
Volvo 740 – A Car with a history
When the Volvo 740 was introduced to the market, it was positioned as a mid-range alternative to the more exclusive Volvo 760. The Volvo team’s intention and focus were on functionality rather than unnecessary details. This resulted in a minimalist design that reflected the team's vision.
The Volvo 740 was initially developed in Sweden and the Netherlands. However, production and assembly took place primarily in Sweden, with a secondary production line established in Belgium. Production of the Volvo 740 ended in 1993 when Volvo decided to further develop the Volvo 940, which had already been introduced to the market. The final model year of the Volvo 740 was 1992. However, for two decades after production ceased, the 740 model was still commonly seen on the roads.
Technical features that set the Volvo 740 apart
The Volvo 740 combined various engine options, safety features, and adaptability. Its design, characterized by a distinct angular shape, was influenced by American demand for cars with a sharp, boxy profile.
Engines and performance
The selection of engine options for the Volvo 740 was broad, designed to meet the needs of different target groups. The most popular engine, a four-cylinder B230 engine, quickly became a bestseller among car owners. The B230 engine gained a strong reputation for its durability.
Drivetrain and transmission
The Volvo 740 was rear-wheel drive (RWD), providing a balanced and stable driving experience. The manual M46 gearbox with overdrive was particularly popular and highly praised by motorsport enthusiasts.
Safety innovations that transformed the automotive industry
The Volvo 740 continued Volvo’s legacy of setting safety standards in the automotive industry. Gunnar Engellau, who led the company during the development of the three-point seatbelt, emphasized the importance of making safety accessible to everyone.
Deformation zones – A legacy from the Volvo 140 series
The body structure was based on technology first introduced in the Volvo 140 series. The body was designed with advanced deformation zones to enhance safety in collisions.
The legendary three-point seatbelt
The Volvo 740 was equipped with three-point seatbelts as standard in all seats. This innovation, first introduced by Nils Bohlin in the Volvo PV544, became an essential feature of the 740 and cemented Volvo’s reputation as a leader in automotive safety.
Laminated windshields
During the production of the Volvo 740, laminated windshields were used to minimize injuries in accidents. These windshields prevented glass from shattering upon impact, drastically reducing the risk of injury. This was an early precursor to the safety glass used in today’s automotive industry.
Volvo 740’s innovations and groundbreaking technology
The Lambda sensor, first introduced in the Volvo 240, was a three-way catalytic converter that was further developed and later implemented in the Volvo 740. The Lambda sensor technology significantly reduced emissions, making the 740 one of the most environmentally friendly cars of its time. The system reduced vehicle emissions by up to 90%.
The Volvo 740 was designed for car owners who wanted to keep maintenance costs low. The design philosophy emphasized ease of servicing and repair. Its modular construction made it easy for workshops to quickly replace or repair parts, which contributed to the car’s popularity.
Popular culture and cult status
The Volvo 740 is a part of Swedish popular culture. The turbo versions were frequently used in amateur rallying, and the car quickly became a favorite among car enthusiasts. In total, more than 1,200,000 cars were produced within the 700 series.
If you would like to discover more about classic Volvo vehicles, we recommend a visit to World of Volvo exhibition.