Lancaster Insurance Pride of Ownership finalists 2024

The Volvo 200 Series gained a reputation for sensible and reliable motoring, and around 2.8 million were made in a production run lasting from 1974 to 1993. Still popular with enthusiasts today, this example is in superb condition and benefits from a few special upgrades.

Bought in April of last year, Thomas says that driving a friend’s classic made him want one of his own. During a search for the right car this one jumped out at him, and he adds that he really liked the look and style of the Swedish saloon.

“It wasn’t in bad condition when I got it but there was a small amount of welding needed, but everything was fine on the mechanical side and I’ve kept the engine completely standard. What I wanted to do, though, was keep the ‘80s style but put a modern twist on it, so I spent eight to nine months on the build and I’m really pleased with the result.”

Amongst the changes are custom-made two-piece wheels that were made from the original items, and this boxy Swedish classic now rides on air suspension. That latter modification was an expensive one, and contributed to a hefty bill for all of the work, but we think it’s certainly been worth it.

It’s also become a bit of a star, gaining the approval of actor, Sung Kang, who played Han Lue in the movie, The Fast and the Furious: Tokyo Drift. That garnered almost 10 million views, and the owner adds that he’s gained more than 50,000 followers on his Instagram page.

This is now a very cool Volvo that we think enthusiasts will love, and we can certainly understand why it’s received so much attention. This brilliant transformation was worth every penny spent on it.