Volvo PV36 Carioca
Volvo's streamlined Art Deco pioneer, inspired by the American Airflow.
- Power
- 80 bhp
- Top speed
- 75 mph
- Est. value
- $25k–$55k
About the Volvo PV36 Carioca
The Volvo PV 36, famously nicknamed the 'Carioca' after a popular Brazilian dance, was a radical departure for the Swedish marque. Designed by Ivan Örnberg, who had previously worked for Hupmobile in Detroit, it embraced the aerodynamic 'Streamline Moderne' styling popularized by the Chrysler Airflow. It was technically advanced for its time, featuring Volvo's first independent front suspension and a robust all-steel body. Despite its innovation, the Carioca's high price and unconventional looks limited its commercial success, making it a rare and significant piece of Volvo history today.
Volvo PV36 Carioca specs
The Volvo PV36 Carioca produces 80 bhp (60 kW). It has a top speed of 75 mph (120 km/h).
| Make | Volvo |
|---|---|
| Model | PV36 Carioca |
| Trim | 3.3 |
| Years | 1935–1938 |
| Type | Classic |
| Body style | Saloon |
| Country | Sweden |
| Production | About 501 built |
| Engine | 3.7-litre inline-six |
|---|---|
| Displacement | 3,670 cc (3.7 litres) |
| Induction | Naturally aspirated |
| Power | 80 bhp (60 kW) at 3,300 rpm |
| Top speed | 75 mph (120 km/h) |
| Transmission | 3-speed manual |
| Drivetrain | Rear-wheel drive |
| Weight | 1,660 kg (3,660 lb) |
| Power-to-weight | 48 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 PV36 Carioca worth?
A typical Volvo PV36 Carioca is estimated to be worth $25,000 – $55,000 (about £19,000 – £41,000).
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 PV36 Carioca rarity in CarSpot
The Volvo PV36 Carioca is an Epic card in CarSpot, with a rarity score of 73 out of 100. Supercars and serious performance cars, typically worth around £100,000 to £250,000. An Epic card is worth 80 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 PV36 Carioca fun facts
- The name 'Carioca' refers to a resident of Rio de Janeiro and was also a popular Latin dance in Sweden during the 1930s.
- Only 501 units were produced in total, including 500 saloons and a single bespoke convertible built by Nordbergs Karosseri.
- The PV 36 was so sturdy that it gained a reputation for safety after several high-profile accidents where occupants walked away unharmed.