Volvo 164 E 1972

Call them ‘Vintage’ or ‘Antique, Classic cars can never stay out of trend. These timeless models have a special spot for the car-lover; they are admired by everyone from all over the world. People relate with such cars and fall for their classy make and style.

Today, we will talk about one such vintage car that won over everyone’s hearts- Volvo 164 E 1972 model. After a lot of research and hard work, we have compiled all the necessary information that a buyer or enthusiast needs.

Back in 1968, Volvo decided it would step into the world of luxury cars, like ones made by brands like Mercedes and Jaguar. That’s when Volvo came up with 164, a fresh saloon-style model which was inspired by its 140 series. With a longer body and stronger engine, 1972 Volvo 164 E had a unique sedan making and a striking grille.

Its predecessor variant, the 1968 version, was launched at Paris Motor Show. Getting back to our 1972 Volvo, it had a 6 cylinder engine, 4 doors, power steering, air conditioning, and leather upholstery. Let’s know more about the Volvo 164 E 1972’s specs:

Making of Volvo 164 E 1972

Sporting a 188 km per hour top speed, the Volvo 164 E 1972 has a total weight of 1335 kg or 2943 lbs. It also has a normally aspirated engine with 6 cylinders that can create 177 PS power at 5800 rpm. With an average maximum torque, this classic car has a manual gearbox with 4-speed options.

It has Coil Springs to provide optimal ride comfort, easy steering, and road holding to the driver and passengers. To support the coil springs the car layout contains durable front suspension and anti-roll bar. For the braking systems, the 164 E has vented discs on both, front and rear, ends. De Dion axle and radius arms support the rear suspension of the vehicle.

Progression

• Forerunner: Volvo Amazon & Volvo PV831 Disponent
• Descendant: Volvo 264

Chassis & Body

• Class: Executive car or Mid-size Luxury
• Style: Sedan; with 4 doors
• Layout: FR layout

Other Specifications

• Engine CC: 2978 CC
• Engine Capacity: 3 liters
• Fuel Tank Capacity: 58.2 liters
• Valve Gear: Overhead Valve (OHV)
• Total Valves: 12; 2 per cylinder
• Torque: 241 Nm at 2500 rpm

While 164’s first variants consisted of basics, Volvo introduced new upgrades and additions in its ‘72 version. Volvo sold over 20,000 cars of their 164 E 1972 model. Their Chassis number went from 32400 to 52789.

Upgrades in Volvo 164 E

Volvo 164 E 1972 cars had several, major to minor, amendments to their initial designs. They were introduced with a new fuel injection system. This novel add-on had B30F for low compression and B30E for high compression. These used Bosch D-Jetronic injection- fuel injection technology; which was one of Bosch’s initial electronic fuel injection systems. However, these volume production systems were added as per the buyer’s requests.

The creators also made some changes in the dashboard; they added a few switches, a clock, and a center console. This redesigned version made ’72 stand out from its older versions. They even revised the door handles by inserting pull style flush-mounted handles in the 1972 version. Volvo 164 E 1972 got new 5.5 inch wide wheels with stylish chrome trimmings.

The power steering feature of this model made it even more special for the interested buyers back then. In this variant, makers changed the position of automatic shift selector. It was mounted on the floor rather than the steering column of the car. Its long list of added features and utmost comfort made 1972 Volvo 164 popular in the global market.

Unlike its previous models, Volvo 164 E 1972 came with installed remote shifter transmission tunnel. The inspiration for adding this was taken from Volvo’s 140 car series. The hood was elongated for about 6 cm and the wheelbase was widened 10cm; to make equipping 6-cylinder engine easier.

The best part about the Volvo 164 ’72- Cognac Interior! Apart from its shiny trimmed wheels and catchy Cognac upholstery, the car was an exemplar of style with the latest machinery. This was made possible from its Jetronic, engine, and automatic gearbox; the car was perfect as a family or a business car.

Volvo 164 E 1972 also starred in several television shows and movies after its launch; it was quite famous for its comfort and functionality.

FAQ

What is the horsepower (hp) of the 164 E?

The Volvo 164 series’ 1972 model has a horsepower of 130 kW or 177 PS.

Does Volvo 164 E 1972 have All Wheel Drive (AWD) feature?

1972 Volvo from car series 164 had Rear Wheel Drive or RWD. It was not All Wheel Drive or AWD.

What is the maximum top speed of the car?

Volvo 164 E 1972 had a top speed of 117 mph or 188 km per hour.

Is 1972 Volvo 164 a Sedan?

Yes, this model is a saloon-style sedan car. It was used for sprinted driving and track racing.

Are there any pros & cons?

Pros: A capacious and well-built sedan that has effective steering.

Cons: Finding spare parts, at present, and injection system tuning is difficult.

Is there a 1972 Volvo 164 E at 1/18 scale available?

Yes, DNA Collectibles could not miss this opportunity to reproduce this beauty at scale 1/18. You can find it on this link here.

Final Verdict

This motoring icon has an amazing style that reflects the car-making proficiency of the 1970s. However, a 3-liter capacity engine might not be enough for today’s requirement; the car is worth having a look. Since the car has received a lot of limelight recently, the availability of spares is getting difficult and expensive as well. Overall, Volvo 164 E 1972 is a great car that won’t tire you even after hours of driving. Please have a look at the nice and detailed video we found on Youtube here: