The Volvo 700 series was a range of rear-wheel drive executive cars produced by Volvo from 1982 to 1992, spanning the 740 and 760 models. The 740 proved extremely popular, blending Volvo’s reputation for safety and durability with an upscale Swedish style.
But what exactly defined the 740 and what role did it serve within Volvo’s history? Let’s take a closer look What Kind of Car is the Volvo 740, the characteristics and legacy of the Volvo 740.
Origins and History of the 700 Series
The 700 series debuted in 1982 as a replacement for the venerable 200 series. It would be the last rear-wheel drive cars from Volvo. The two initial variants were the four-cylinder 740 and more luxurious six-cylinder 760.
Designed with family-friendly safety in mind, over half a million 700 series cars sold worldwide before production ended in 1992. The boxy yet handsome lines and spacious interiors made a strong impression. Robust build quality also set high standards for Volvo.
The 700 series paved the way for Volvo’s transition to front-wheel drive platforms while upholding the brand’s identity. The 740 specifically became a global best-seller and helped elevate public perception of Volvo.
Variants of the 740 Model
The base 740 came in three body styles:
740 Saloon (Sedan) – Spacious four-door model made up bulk of sales. Offered GL, GLE and Turbo trim levels.
740 Estate (Wagon) – Popular wagon version with 60/40 folding rear seat and ample cargo room.
740 Coupe – Stylish two-door, four seater coupe modeled after the classic P1800.
Later in the run came specialty versions like the sporty 740 SE, thrifty 740 GLT and luxurious 740 Exec. Overseas buyers also got the unique 740 Aerosport. Whether passenger space or style, a 740 variant suited most needs.
740 Powertrain Specifications
The 740 came equipped with variants of Volvo’s durable B21 four-cylinder engine:
- 2.1 liter single overhead cam inline-4
- Carbureted or fuel injected depending on market
- Normally aspirated or turbocharged
- Power ranges from 100 to 155 horsepower
- 3-speed automatic or 5-speed manual transmissions
- Front engine, rear-wheel drive layout
This smooth powerplant delivered a balance of decent performance and fuel efficiency paired to Volvo’s reputation for longevity. Turbo models offered a welcome power boost.
Exterior and Interior Design
The 700 series adopted an elegant box shape that managed to appear modern despite its simplicity. Signature styling cues included:
- Rectangular profile lacking extraneous decoration
- Upright grille and headlights flanking Volvo emblem
- Wrap-around rear window on sedans and wagon
- Distinctive C-pillar and roof treatment on coupe
- Aerodynamic details like flush glass and integrated bumpers
Inside, the 740 emphasized space, simplicity and seating comfort. Notable interior elements were:
- Leather seating and tilt/telescoping wheel
- Digital push-button radio and climate controls
- Cavernous rear legroom on sedans and wagons
- Spacious trunk with flat loading floor
- Large greenhouse for excellent outward visibility
- Available premium sound systems
Driving Character and Ride Quality
The 740 delivered a plush, unhurried ride quality thanks to its soft suspension tuning and insulated cabin. Turbo models offered decent pep but the 740 was built for cruising in comfort rather than racing.
Slow steering matched the sedate character but cars handled tidily. The rear-drive platform and balanced chassis gave the 740 a planted, stable feel. ABS brakes provided reassuring stopping power.
Overall, 740 driving character prizes relaxation and confident control over pure excitement. This matched the 740’s upscale persona as a boulevardier rather than sports sedan.
Positioning in the Volvo Lineup
The 740 range rounded out Volvo’s rear-drive lineup in the 1980s:
- 240 – Volvo’s core affordable sedan/wagon.
- 740 – More powerful mid-range model with luxury leanings.
- 760 – Flagship sedan with six-cylinder engine and maximum features.
The 740 split the difference nicely for buyers wanting an elegant step up from the humble 240 without stretching for a costly 760. It defined the heart of Volvo’s brand values.
Later in the 1990s, front-drive replacements like the 850 and S90/V90 would adopt the 740’s comfortable, safety-focused ethos in more modern packages.
Legacy and Influence of the 740
The successful 740 left large footprints as Volvo transitioned to the future:
- Became Volvo’s best-selling model internationally through the 1980s.
- Helped make Volvo an esteemed brand worldwide for its combination of safety, durability and Swedish design.
- Styling and powertrain carried over to the replacement 940 providing continuity.
- Sahred components with the limited-production 780 coupe.
- Earned a reputation as one of the most dutiful enthusiast cars for modifyability.
For many, the humble yet handsome 700 Series epitomizes Volvo’s core values during an influential era. The 740 specifically remains a fan favorite as a structurally stout, easy-to-upgrade rear-drive classic.
Conclusion
As the most popular model in Volvo’s renowned 700 series, the 740 came to exemplify the brand’s identity from the 1980s into the 1990s. With handsome styling inside and out, robust construction and a reputation for safety and longevity, the 740 presented buyers with the best of Volvo virtues in a well-rounded package.
The 740 family enlarged Volvo’s global presence as a maker of distinctive Swedish cars that were built to last. For many enthusiasts today, the 740 represents Volvo at its boxy, rear-drive, respectable best.