Volvo 164 Classic Cars for Sale

History of the Volvo 164

Volvo presented the 164 as its new top-of-the-line luxury saloon at the 1968 Paris Motor Show, targeting executive-class buyers. This marked Volvo’s first six-cylinder launch since the PV800 series, and the first model in the brand’s modern luxury push after the PV60 ended in 1950. Developed under designer Jan Wilsgaard with design cues from both the Volvo P1900 and the British Wolseley 6/99, the 164 staked out new territory with a longer nose to accommodate its signature straight-six engine. Production ran from 1968 to 1975, with a total of 146,008 units manufactured, before the 164 was succeeded by the 264. The model attracted buyers with its combination of Swedish reliability and an unexpectedly sumptuous interior, setting a precedent for future Volvo luxury cars.

Model History of the Volvo 164

The 164 built upon the base of the 140-Series, sharing many chassis components but extending the body and adding more refined appointments. The early models, produced until 1970, carried a restrained appearance and relatively basic features. From 1971, Volvo improved equipment and introduced fuel-injected variants (the '164 E'). Later years, particularly from 1973, saw a shift towards bulkier styling, greater luxury equipment, and, unfortunately, a decline in bodywork steel quality. In 1975, the Volvo 264 took over, boasting a V6 engine and even more pronounced comfort and safety advances. Notably, the 164 did not have a direct predecessor in the luxury segment for nearly 20 years but paved the way for the 200-series luxury variants.

Highlights and Key Features of the Volvo 164

One defining element of the Volvo 164 is its smooth inline-six engine, delivering a unique driving character and solid cruising ability. The 164 brought features usually reserved for the upper segment: optional leather interior, real wood accents, power steering (standard or optional by year), optional overdrive for relaxed motorway driving, and rare accessories like headlamp wipers and air conditioning. The 164 'TE' version (1974) is especially notable for its extensive luxury equipment, such as reading lights, additional rear headrests, and even a sunroof. The model was renowned for a comfortable, long-distance driving experience and good day-to-day usability, given its ample boot and solid construction.

Technical Data of the Volvo 164

Special Editions and Collectible Models

The 164 'E' variant introduced fuel injection for improved performance and a higher level of sophistication, standing out as a more technologically advanced option. The flagship 164 TE (Top Executive), launched in 1974, tops the range with features including leather upholstery in black or bordeaux, rear headrests, reading lamps, select models with climate control, and occasionally a factory-fitted sunroof. Both these variants, especially the 164 TE, are especially prized among experts for their opulent specification and rarity.

Weak Spots and Common Issues

Buyers should pay close attention to several vulnerable areas. Rust is the major issue, notably around wheel arches, sills, spare wheel wells, door bottoms, bonnet hinges, and windscreen frames. On later (post-1973) models, steel quality decreased and corrosion risk increased. Mechanically, early fuel injection (D-Jetronic) can have unreliable wiring or contact corrosion. Camshaft and timing gears may show wear; listen for rattling noises at idle. Leather interior, particularly stitching and lumbar support, often deteriorates. Heating controls (until 1972) and climate functions can be defective. Chromed trim should be checked for corrosion, as replacements may prove hard to source. Despite these issues, the 164 is generally robust, with moderate spare parts prices and good availability from specialists. Special attention should be given to overdrive and engine mounts, as well as for oil leaks in automatic transmissions.

Engine and Performance, Transmission and Handling

The Volvo 164's robust straight-six engine imparts a uniquely smooth power delivery, distinctly more refined than its four-cylinder contemporaries. With up to 145 PS, it accelerates strongly and cruises comfortably at motorway speeds, particularly in fuel-injected or overdrive-equipped variants. Fuel consumption rises swiftly with spirited driving or frequent cold starts—figures of up to 14 litres per 100 km are possible. The car provides a ride reminiscent of 1970s luxury saloons: soft, stable, and calm on the road, albeit with pronounced body roll during cornering. The manual transmission with overdrive is the purist’s choice, enjoying lower motorway revs and a relaxed drive. The automatic option is dependable but saps performance slightly, while both transmissions demand regular oil checks for leak prevention. • 164 E: Notable for Bosch electronic injection, higher output, and superior smoothness. • 164 TE: Ultimate in luxury, with maximal amenities for the series. • Early 1969–70 models: Favoured by purists for their restrained design, though rarer and more basic in spec.

Interior, Comfort, Exterior and Design

Volvo’s design chief Jan Wilsgaard combined classic British saloon influences—like those of the Wolseley 6/99—with unmistakable Swedish restraint. The elongated bonnet and grille signalled the presence of the six-cylinder powerplant, while extended wheelbases made for substantial rear legroom. Interior options ranged from practical to lavish, featuring leather seats, real wood details, and (in TE variants) elaborate amenities including headrests all round and sunroofs. Dashboard design changed with the 1973 facelift, at which point cheaper plastics began replacing metal and chrome trims in many areas. Common colours included brown and blue metallic, while special-order hues and accessories such as original Volvo aluminium wheels and radios contributed to individualisation for period owners. TE models boasted the highest levels of luxury equipment, making them particularly attractive from a collector’s perspective.

Other Relevant Features

All 164s are eligible for historic vehicle registration—including tax exemptions in many regions. Documentation and classic insurance valuations are often available, and many cars are sold with their original manuals and a well-documented maintenance history. The active enthusiast scene means technical advice and spare parts remain accessible, though trim and accessory pieces (e.g., fog lamps, chromed trim) can be challenging to source. Later models mostly featured power steering, making them surprisingly approachable for daily use, even decades on.

Summary

The Volvo 164 is a sophisticated, rear-driven luxury sedan of the 1970s, made distinctive by its straight-six engine, comfort-oriented chassis, and substantial interior amenities. With production limited to under 150,000 units and a distinct concentration of interest in certain versions, the 164 holds its niche among classic Volvos. Typical challenges, particularly with bodywork corrosion and specific mechanical points of attention—especially on fuel-injected models—mean that careful inspection is vital. At its best, a maintained 164 fuses Swedish engineering and comfort in a unique classic package.