Volvo 66
The Swedish-badged Dutch classic that brought CVT to the masses.
- Power
- 57 bhp
- Top speed
- 88 mph
- Est. value
- $3k–$7k
About the Volvo 66
The Volvo 66 was born from Volvo's acquisition of DAF's passenger car division, effectively serving as a safety-enhanced evolution of the DAF 66. It retained the innovative 'Variomatic' belt-driven continuously variable transmission, which famously allowed the car to travel as fast in reverse as it could forward. Volvo added substantial impact-absorbing bumpers, a safety steering wheel, and side-impact bars to align the Dutch design with Swedish safety standards. While never a performance machine, its light weight and smooth power delivery made it a pioneer of easy-to-drive city cars.
Volvo 66 specs
The Volvo 66 produces 57 bhp (43 kW) and 94 Nm (69 lb-ft) of torque. It has a top speed of 88 mph (142 km/h).
| Make | Volvo |
|---|---|
| Model | 66 |
| Trim | 1.3 |
| Years | 1975–1980 |
| Type | Classic |
| Body style | Saloon |
| Country | Sweden |
| Engine | 1.3-litre Renault-sourced inline-four |
|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,289 cc (1.3 litres) |
| Induction | Naturally aspirated |
| Power | 57 bhp (43 kW) at 5,200 rpm |
| Torque | 94 Nm (69 lb-ft) |
| Top speed | 88 mph (142 km/h) |
| Transmission | Single-speed CVT |
| Drivetrain | Rear-wheel drive |
| Weight | 835 kg (1,841 lb) |
| Power-to-weight | 68 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 66 worth?
A typical Volvo 66 is estimated to be worth $2,500 – $6,500 (about £1,900 – £4,800).
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 66 rarity in CarSpot
The Volvo 66 is an Uncommon card in CarSpot, with a rarity score of 21 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 66 fun facts
- The Volvo 66's Variomatic transmission uses two rubber belts and expanding pulleys, meaning it has no traditional gears and provides seamless acceleration.
- Because of its unique transmission, the car could theoretically reach its top speed of 88 mph in reverse, leading to its popularity in 'reverse racing' events.
- Volvo reversed the DAF gear lever logic for the 66; pushing the lever forward now selected reverse, matching the international standard for automatic cars.