16 replies to this topic

[T5BRICK]

Since the '96 855 was totaled I've been looking around for an older Volvo of some sort. I found a sweet '66 122, but it didn't run and it probably needed more work that I'd be able to put into it. I found a '83 242, but it's pretty torn up and it's not really doing anything for me. I had totally forgotten about the 780 until I saw one the other day. Hmm.

So, I know it's got the PVR V6. Unless, of course, I come across a newer model with the turbo 4 cylinder. I know that the body panels and lights are hard to come by since they aren't shared with any other models. I know the interior is also filled with hard to come by bits.

I found a few bits of info on the internet, but they're all pretty out of date. Anyway, does anyone here have experience with these cars?

[Three Fat Tigers]

Personally I think they look a lot better in photos than in person, very awkward and dated in person. Heavy, as heavy as a 4 door 960, even though it's ten inches shorter. V6 was hit with a gas guzzler tax. Very tacky interior, wouldn't be so bad if the materials were higher in quality, or the color choices were more neutral. Only fitted with the type 1 dash, with the dated and ugly rectangular instrument panel.

Some friends of mine are currently building a modified turbo 780 that they plan to sell. I think I'd rather put the time and money into a C70.


Reference:
http://www.geocities...ty/Garage/6570/
http://www.brickboar...900/780Data.htm

[T5BRICK]

Thanks for the links. I had already seen one of them but the other was new to me!

So I guess I need to go take a look at the one I found and see if it still intrigues me up close.

If that doesn't do it for me, maybe I'll just stick to 242s. I like the older models, I just can't find a GT in my price range.

[swedishiron]

That V6 will run forever with minimal issues with regular oil changes, however getting the suspension worked on/finding parts can be an issue for the IRS. It is slower than it feels Unless you really want one I would buy a later 940 Turbo instead if you just want RWD. My V6 780 was very reliable but slow, I sold it with like 280K miles on it.

[Chilled Man]

Go find used parts for it ............... lol

[Three Fat Tigers]

 swedishiron, on 07 August 2009 - 09:35 AM, said:

however getting the suspension worked on/finding parts can be an issue for the IRS.

I'm pretty sure the rear suspension is the same as found on the '88+ 760/960 up to '94. It's relatively easy to work on or replace bushings. Main advantage is you can dial in some negative camber for better handling, and if you lower it, you won't need an adjustable panhard rod, disadvantage are the nivomat springs and shocks, where it may be cheaper to replace both than to replace even one shock. The earlier cars did not have a rear swaybar, which is a must have as it makes a significant difference.

[swedishiron]

 Three Fat Tigers, on 08 August 2009 - 09:53 PM, said:

I'm pretty sure the rear suspension is the same as found on the '88+ 760/960 up to '94. It's relatively easy to work on or replace bushings. Main advantage is you can dial in some negative camber for better handling, and if you lower it, you won't need an adjustable panhard rod, disadvantage are the nivomat springs and shocks, where it may be cheaper to replace both than to replace even one shock. The earlier cars did not have a rear swaybar, which is a must have as it makes a significant difference.

None of the Volvo specialist near me will touch a 780 V6 or any Volvo V6 for that matter so if you can't do the suspension work yourself it can be a problem.
The dealers won't work on them either.

[JordanW]

Wow... I'd love a 780... PRV or B230ft... Didn't the B230FT come with the turbo+ kit from the factory? I know the later years of the PRV V-6 were much better then the early ones.

Though, the 242's are sharp too. You got a tough call...

[mark_850t]

I believe the b230FT did come with the turbo plus kit in the later 780s. It just allows a short boost increase over
like 10 seconds. It would be hard to find body parts, but there are TONS of used 740s 760s 940s that share all of
the engine components. You might as well take this question to turbobricks.com to get the best answer. I think these
cars are way sweet if you find one that isn't beat up. RWD + Turbo + B230FT = fun and easy mods

[Aequitas_Veritas]

I always liked the uniqueness of them. I saw this one go for sale like 8 years ago and it make me want them so bad. But most I have seen do look pretty dated now.

[oRange855]

Or do a S90 conversion.

[mrtl321]

 oRange855, on 18 October 2009 - 04:07 PM, said:

Or do a S90 conversion.

Wow, when you talk about being the only one in town that one gets the prize

[JordanW]

Wow... I want a 780 now!!!

[TyConn]

dude word that thing looks so cool

[JordanW]

the 960 front end looks good, but I'd black out the grill. BUT it does take away from the Berton styling the the sharper edged 780 has.

[Logan2224]

Everytime I see one of these, I really start wanting one again haha.
I like the 960 front end, never seen that before. I think the original look is better though.