Volvo V40 Mk1
The stylish Dutch-built Swede that redefined Volvo's compact estate.
- Power
- 115 bhp
- Top speed
- 121 mph
- Est. value
- $1k–$5k
About the Volvo V40 Mk1
The first-generation Volvo V40, co-developed with Mitsubishi and built at the NedCar plant in the Netherlands, marked a departure from Volvo's traditional boxy design language. Launched alongside the S40 saloon, the V40 was marketed as a 'lifestyle estate,' prioritising sleek aesthetics and safety over maximum cargo volume. The 1.8-litre variant served as a core model, offering a balanced blend of efficiency and typical Volvo refinement. While it lacked the outright pace of the T4, its multi-link rear suspension provided surprisingly competent handling for a family wagon of its era.
Volvo V40 Mk1 specs
The Volvo V40 Mk1 produces 115 bhp (86 kW) and 165 Nm (122 lb-ft) of torque. It has a top speed of 121 mph (195 km/h).
| Make | Volvo |
|---|---|
| Model | V40 |
| Generation | Mk1 |
| Trim | 1.8 |
| Years | 1995–2004 |
| Type | Estate |
| Body style | Estate |
| Country | Sweden |
| Original price | About $24,000 when new |
| Engine | 1.8-litre inline-4 |
|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,731 cc (1.7 litres) |
| Induction | Naturally aspirated |
| Power | 115 bhp (86 kW) at 5,500 rpm |
| Torque | 165 Nm (122 lb-ft) |
| Redline | 6,500 rpm |
| Top speed | 121 mph (195 km/h) |
| Transmission | 5-speed manual |
| Drivetrain | Front-wheel drive |
| Weight | 1,299 kg (2,864 lb) |
| Power-to-weight | 89 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 V40 Mk1 worth?
A typical Volvo V40 Mk1 is estimated to be worth $1,000 – $4,500 (about £746 – £3,400).
Its original price when new was about $24,000.
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 V40 Mk1 rarity in CarSpot
The Volvo V40 Mk1 is a Common card in CarSpot, with a rarity score of 0 out of 100. Everyday cars you can spot on almost any street. A Common card is worth 10 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 V40 Mk1 fun facts
- The car was originally to be named the V4, but Audi threatened legal action as they already used the S4 and S6 designations, leading Volvo to add a zero.
- The V40 was the first car to ever receive a four-star safety rating from Euro NCAP.
- Despite its Swedish badge, the Mk1 V40 was built on the same production line as the Mitsubishi Carisma in Born, Netherlands.
