When Volvo first began its collaboration with Bertone, it resulted in the goofy 262C coupe with its dramatically chopped roof and overall odd proportions. The new model caused further confusion for trying to push customers into a relationship with Volvo under the premise of it being a luxury model versus one built on durability and safety. Needless to say, the first collaboration with Bertone was not particularly successful, but the second attempt with the completely redesigned 780 coupe was a much more compelling offer. This 1989 model is in tidy shape and just needs some finishing touches to make it even more of a compelling purchase.
When Volvo re-engaged Bertone for a second time, the new model was completely redesigned. When the 262C was introduced, it still bore a strong resemblance to the standard model, just with a chopped roof. The 780 was completely redesigned but with a strong resemblance to the family bloodline. While the looks were similar for the duration of the 780’s production, numerous changes were made under the skin that make this late-production model far more attractive than the first editions. One of the tell-tale signs for this being a later car are the pretty cross-spoke wheels that fill out the wheel arches perfectly.
Most of the luxury-related features were found inside the car, with thick leather seating surfaces, real woodgrain, and full power controls. The seller notes that his car’s interior was disassembled and then put back together, but that it still needs further reassembly. The one thing that stands out to me is the missing covers on both seats for the mechanisms that allow the seat back to pivot. Other features included a moonroof, heated seats, upgraded stereo with equalizer, and an anti-theft alarm. The seller’s car is said to have under 50,000 original miles, and it shows in the overall clean condition inside.
While most enthusiasts would buy a Bertone for its rarity, the later cars presented numerous compelling reasons to buy one over the earlier cars. The biggest advantage is the four-cylinder turbocharged “red block” B230FT engine, which replaced the lethargic PRV-6 shared with Peugeot and Eagle. The turbocharged mill was a fan favorite across the entire Volvo lineup and delivered much improved performance of the six-cylinder engine. Other improvements were made to the rear suspension with a multi-link independent rear setup over the earlier live rear axle. Overall, this 780 listed here on craigslist is a nicely preserved example of an often misunderstood Volvo. Thanks to Barn Finds reader Mitchell G. for the find.
Massive bucks per bang. Hope it goes to the right home
Lovely looking car. I’ve seen a few Volvo Bertone 780 coupes.
These hold a very odd attraction for me but I’ve heard getting some of the bespoke parts for them is near impossible. My ideal find would be a car in perfect physical condition but with a blown or toasted engine and trans. Then drop in a LS or Ford Windsor, add some ipd suspension bits and surprise some people at the stoplight.
I am no expert on Volvo’s, but this seems like a fair price, for a very interesting car.
I’ve owned three of these over the years. Started with a brown PVR-6. What a mutt. Moved on to a blue turbo and the last was this white turbo. One of the most classic Volvo box designs.
Wow, what a great looking Volvo! I don’t remember ever seeing one of these, and I wouldn’t mind being seen driving it!
I liked the first 240 Bertones. They just looked better to me with that chopped top styling.
Sort of reminds me of a Maserati Bi-Turbo Coupe. which is not a bad thing. Buy it, clean it up, find the needed parts, and drive it. One of the best ever looking Volvos.
🎯 Chris. Sharp lines, lovely automobile
Good luck finding those parts. I had plenty enough trouble chasing down parts for my last-of-the-line 1998 V90.
If the seller had assembled this kit and offered a turnkey project, sure, but a 35-year-old puzzle with missing pieces and uncertain functionality? And priced at a premium, no less?
Lakes Volvos in Bedfordshire in Engkand will pretty well have everything you need for Volvos. Worth a shout
I’m glad I’m not the only one who thought the 262c was goofy-looking.
The 240 Volvo was a better car in my opinion. It was all Volvo made in Sweden with all Swedish parts. Although newer with more power, the 780 was built with parts from so many different auto makers you didn’t know what you were driving and I feel because of this the 240 was more reliable. This 780 is a fine looking Volvo but the 262 is the only Volvo I’ve ever been attracted to.
I’ve had a bunch of 145/245 Volvos since 1974. My take: If Patton had those Volvos he’d have been in Berlin by Christmas.
The 262C was made by Bertone, in Italy, although most of the body panels came directly from the 260 4 door.
Had three of these all turbo+ four cylinder cars. 188hp max output. Needed for the extra weight, but great highway cruisers… Loved the cross spoke wheels and had a set I put on numerous volvos… Had a maroon, black and grey one. First maroon had about 250k on it. The one lady owner would haul hay in the trunk for her horses and her two German shepherds rode in the back seat… Grey one had about 77k on it, black one i had about five years ago with about 120k… Parts were still available from Volvo Danbury and even Got a nos front chin spoiler from Gaithersburg volvo…
Long-time owner of turbowagons, always wanted one of these! But… Red flag for me is that it is a Florida car, with an “interior that was previously disassembled”… Hmmm… I smell a flood car. Could be a Great buy, or a never-ending nightmare.
Tony, it’s both. Old complex Volvos are electrical and pneumatic nightmares, not to mention their appetites for heater cores. That was the center of my previous comments, seller, put it back together so everything works. Then put it up for auction as a complete and working car. Otherwise there’s way too much exposure to a purchaser for a nightmare of expenses and troubles.