Done right, sleepers can be an absolute riot, and this 1988 Volvo 740 Turbo wagon looks like it could definitely fall into that category. Originally owned and modified by American actor and racing driver Paul Newman, this old Volvo wagon sports a turbocharged V6 plucked from the engine bay of a Buick Grand National. Now, this Buick Grand National-powered Volvo 740 is up for grabs in a new online auction.
Let’s start outside, where we find Gray Metallic paint and enhanced lines thanks to a subtle aero kit. This Volvo is also lowered over a set of 16-inch Gemini wheels thanks to a set of IPD springs, which are paired with Bilstein struts and new sway bars. The 16-inch wheels are wrapped in BFGoodrich tires.
Inside, we see black leather upholstery and a power-operated sunroof, while heated front seats and A/C keep it comfy. Also of note is the small VDO boost gauge mounted on the A-pillar.
That little gauge keeps tabs on the charge air feeding the Buick Grand National-sourced turbocharged 3.8L V6, which was installed by HESCO Engineering in Birmingham, Alabama. Output reaches the rear wheels through a Borg Warner 5-speed manual transmission and limited-slip differential.
As the seller notes, this Grand National-powered Volvo is far from perfect, with flaws in the paint, distortions in the body kit, wear on the leather upholstery, a sag in the headliner, and cracks in the dash. There’s also an oil leak. But hey, all that lends to the sleeper spirit, no?
This Volvo was acquired by the current seller in 2017, who serviced it with a new Centerforce Performance clutch assembly, hydraulic throw-out bearing, and replacement clutch cylinder, as well as a new fuel pump and new injectors. The headlights, taillights, turn signals, wipers, and tailgate struts were also replaced by the current owner. The odometer shows a bit over 76,000 miles.
The current highest bid of 15 placed thus far is set at $26,000, as of this writing. The auction for this Grand National-powered Volvo 740 will end Friday, March 17th. The car is currently located in Algonquin, Illinois, and includes a photocopy of the original Connecticut title in Paul Newman’s name.
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Source: Bring A Trailer
Comments
Is that what you’re identifying as today. Probably wouldn’t know a good car if it drove over you.
You had my attention at Buick Grand National Turbo V6.