FWD Volvo’s

Big changes were coming to Volvo come the early 1990’s. In 1991 Volvo released the 850 which was a drastic change from what they had built before. It features modern smoother lines, a unique 5 cylinder engine, and most notably, front-wheel drive (FWD). The opposite of RWD, FWD cars are pulled along by their front wheels. This yields greater fuel economy, better traction in inclement weather, and engine bay space at the cost of joyfulness. However, these cars would prove to be extremely fun and ushered in a new era for Volvo.

The 850 was only the first of many, after it came the S70, V70, S80, S60, XC70, XC90, and more. Many of these vehicles would also be available in all-wheel drive (AWD) but be FWD biased and designed upon a FWD chassis. These new models offered various forms of white block motors in 5 and 6 cylinder variants. The only exception is the V8 motor designed by Yamaha. These motors were similarly bulletproof but not quite as much as the redblock. However, they made better power, better efficiency, and made a beautiful exhaust note.

Though my favorite Volvo’s are RWD, Volvo still made some excellent FWD models. This included the 850R, V70R, S60R, XC90 V8, and more. All of which built upon each other as a faster, more performance optioned model all the way up to the S60R and V70R with a 300hp turbocharged 5 cylinder, manual transmission, and AWD.

I have owned a few of these models including a quirky C30 hatchback, multiple XC70’s, and a V70. My C30 was my first Volvo ever and has a lot to do with why I love the brand so much today. It had about 300hp with modifications and excellent styling. Fun fact, the C30 was one of the first cars to be designed entirely by women!

Photos courtesy of: CarThrottle, Cali Kid