Long before Volvo became the symbol of sleek Scandinavian modern design it is today, the Swedish firm built dependable, durable, and slightly quirky cars that seemed to appeal most to college professors and public radio DJs from northern New England. The PV444 Sedan and its successor the PV544, were the company’s first commercially successful postwar models, debuting in the mid-1940s and sustaining the marque through the mid-1960s. Boasting bulletproof pushrod four-cylinder engines and a simple rear-wheel drive chassis, it could handle just about anything thrown at it. In 1953, the PV445 “Duett” joined the range as a dual-purpose family/commercial model. While the PV444 sedan had unibody construction, the PV445 reverted to a ladder-type chassis with leaf-sprung rear axle, which offered superior load-carrying capacity and greater versatility for wagon, van, and pickup variants.

This appealing PV445 Duett wears a well-maintained older restoration, finished in two-tone sand beige over a tan velour interior. It is tidy and nicely presented with an honest charm and driver-friendly quality. Powered by a 1.8-liter B18 engine backed by a four-speed manual transmission, it features period touches including a factory radio, polished wood cargo area deck, and a period-style roof rack. Enjoy the rugged charm of a classic Volvo with the whole family in tow.

Offers welcome and trades considered

$39,500

Stock number 7395