Volvo 164
The iron-clad executive: Volvo's first post-war foray into the luxury six-cylinder market.
- Power
- 160 bhp
- 0–60 mph
- 8.5 s
- Top speed
- 120 mph
- Est. value
- $5k–$25k
About the Volvo 164
Introduced in 1968, the Volvo 164 was a prestige-oriented development of the 140 Series, featuring a distinctive upright grille and a 10cm wheelbase stretch to accommodate the B30 straight-six engine. The 'E' trim, launched for the 1972 model year, introduced Bosch D-Jetronic electronic fuel injection, significantly improving performance and making it one of the fastest executive saloons of its era. While it shared its doors and rear panels with the humbler 144, the 164 offered a far more luxurious cabin with standard leather upholstery and wood-grain trim. It remains a cult classic, prized for its tank-like build quality and smooth, torque-rich power delivery.
Volvo 164 specs
The Volvo 164 produces 160 bhp (119 kW) and 230 Nm (170 lb-ft) of torque. It reaches 60 mph in 8.5 seconds and has a top speed of 120 mph (193 km/h).
| Make | Volvo |
|---|---|
| Model | 164 |
| Trim | 3.0 E |
| Years | 1968–1975 |
| Type | Classic |
| Body style | Saloon |
| Country | Sweden |
| Original price | About $4,900 when new |
| Engine | 3.0-litre inline-six |
|---|---|
| Displacement | 2,978 cc (3.0 litres) |
| Induction | Naturally aspirated |
| Power | 160 bhp (119 kW) at 5,500 rpm |
| Torque | 230 Nm (170 lb-ft) |
| Redline | 6,000 rpm |
| 0–60 mph | 8.5 s |
| Top speed | 120 mph (193 km/h) |
| Transmission | 4-speed manual with overdrive |
| Drivetrain | Rear-wheel drive |
| Weight | 1,360 kg (2,998 lb) |
| Power-to-weight | 118 bhp per tonne |
Typical figures for the standard car; options, markets and model years vary. Where our specs come from
How much is a Volvo 164 worth?
A typical Volvo 164 is estimated to be worth $4,500 – $25,000 (about £3,400 – £19,000).
Its original price when new was about $4,900.
Values are directional estimates for a typical example, not appraisals. Condition, mileage, history and specification all change what a real car is worth. Pound figures use the exchange rate of 3 November 2026. How values are estimated
Volvo 164 rarity in CarSpot
The Volvo 164 is an Uncommon card in CarSpot, with a rarity score of 25 out of 100. Hot hatches and premium sporty cars. An Uncommon card is worth 20 XP.
Each model's tier starts from a 0–100 score based on its value plus its power or production numbers. Once enough players have spotted a model, how often it is spotted can move it up or down one tier. How CarSpot rarity works
Rarity is a collectible game mechanic, not an assessment of real-world scarcity or value.
Volvo 164 fun facts
- The 164's front-end styling was inspired by a 1950s concept car called the P358, which was originally intended to house a V8 engine.
- The 'E' in 164 E stands for 'Einspritzung', the German word for fuel injection, reflecting Volvo's use of the Bosch D-Jetronic system.
- Though never officially produced as an estate, several coachbuilders created '165' variants by grafting 164 front clips onto 145 wagon bodies.