1968 Volvo 140 Combi (145) Dimensions, Size & Specs

The curb weight of the Volvo 140 Combi (145) station wagon typically ranges around 1,350 to 1,450 kilograms (2,976 to 3,197 pounds), depending on specific configurations and optional equipment. This weight is fairly typical for mid-sized station wagons of its time, reflecting its solid build and safety-focused engineering. The relatively substantial weight contributes to a stable and comfortable ride but also impacts fuel consumption, especially given the engine technologies available between 1968 and 1975. While the vehicle provides reliable performance and durability, the weight means it is less focused on fuel economy compared to more modern lightweight cars, emphasizing safety and longevity.

The Volvo 140 Combi (145) station wagon offers a versatile interior, especially appreciated for its spacious cargo capacity. With the rear seats upright, the cargo space is ample for typical day-to-day usage like groceries, luggage, and other goods. When the rear bench is folded down, the available cargo area significantly expands, allowing for larger items and increased flexibility for transporting bulky loads. The design emphasizes practicality, ensuring homeowners and travelers alike could benefit from the vehicle's utility. Exact cargo volume figures vary, but the 140 Combi was renowned for its functional space, making it competitive among station wagons of its era.

Yes, the Volvo 140 Combi (145) fits comfortably inside a standard garage. Typical single-car garage dimensions range from about 2,400 to 3,000 millimeters (7.9 to 9.8 feet) in width and 4,800 to 6,000 millimeters (15.7 to 19.7 feet) in length. With the Volvo 140 Combi measuring roughly 1,700 mm (66.9 in) in width and 4,560 mm (179.5 in) in length, it leaves enough clearance on the sides and front/rear within these common garage sizes. However, owners should consider additional space for easy maneuvering and doors opening. Overall, the car’s dimensions make it well-suited for secure indoor parking in typical residential garages.

Compared to its predecessor, the Volvo Amazon Combi (models 121 and 122), the Volvo 140 Combi (145) is slightly larger in several key dimensions, reflecting Volvo's efforts to offer more interior space and comfort. The Volvo Amazon Combi measured about 4,470 millimeters (176 inches) in length, slightly shorter than the 4,560 mm (179.5 inches) of the 140 Combi. Width and height are also marginally increased in the newer 140 series, with the Amazon being about 1,670 mm (65.7 inches) wide and 1,400 mm (55.1 inches) tall. These dimensional increases provide additional passenger room and cargo space, contributing to better usability and a more contemporary look without dramatically increasing overall size.

The Volvo 140 Combi (145) typically came equipped with a fuel tank capacity of approximately 60 liters (15.9 US gallons). This capacity allowed for a decent travel range, particularly considering the fuel consumption rates of vehicles from the late 1960s and early 1970s, which ranged around 10 to 12 liters per 100 kilometers (approximately 20 to 24 miles per gallon). Given this, the station wagon could often travel between 500 to 600 kilometers (310 to 373 miles) on a full tank under average driving conditions. This range was adequate for both daily commuting and longer trips, making the car practical for families and travellers who valued reliability and comfort.

The exterior height of the Volvo 140 Combi (145) measures approximately 1,430 millimeters (56.3 inches), with a ground clearance around 160 to 180 millimeters (6.3 to 7.1 inches), although exact clearance can slightly vary by model year and tires. The relatively modest height contributes to a low center of gravity, aiding vehicle stability and handling, particularly in corners and emergency maneuvers. Ground clearance is sufficient for urban driving and moderate off-road conditions such as gravel roads, but the car is not designed for rugged terrain. This balance between height and clearance made the 140 Combi versatile and practical for a wide range of everyday driving environments.

Compared to other mid-sized station wagons of the late 1960s and early 1970s, such as the Volkswagen Variant or Opel Caravan, the Volvo 140 Combi (145) stands out with its slightly larger dimensions and focus on safety and durability. While many contemporaries offered compact dimensions around 4,200 to 4,400 millimeters (165 to 173 inches) in length, the Volvo was more spacious at about 4,560 mm (179.5 inches). This translates into a roomier cabin and more generous cargo space. Additionally, Volvo’s reputation for strong build quality and safety features like reinforced structures added practical appeal. While fuel economy might have been less competitive, the 140 Combi’s larger size and emphasis on comfort and security made it a preferred choice for families seeking reliability.

The Volvo 140 Combi (145) has a turning circle diameter of approximately 11.5 meters (37.7 feet), typical for station wagons of its size and era. This turning circle means the vehicle requires a moderate amount of space for U-turns and tight cornering maneuvers. While it is not as nimble as smaller cars or modern hatchbacks, the turning radius is sufficient for urban driving and parking in most environments encountered by its owners during the late 1960s and 1970s. The design balances the need for passenger and cargo space with manageable handling characteristics, ensuring the car remains practical in everyday use and suburban settings.

The Volvo 140 Combi (145) offered several notable advantages during its production years from 1968 to 1975. In design, it combined a classic boxy shape with functional elements that maximized interior space, contributing to excellent passenger comfort and cargo flexibility. Safety was a Volvo hallmark, with robust body construction, crumple zones, and safety features ahead of many competitors. Functionally, the wagon provided versatility with its foldable rear seats and spacious cargo area. Its size was balanced to offer both maneuverability in urban areas and the capability for longer family trips. Reliability and ease of maintenance further strengthened its position as a practical family vehicle of its time, marrying solid engineering with everyday usability.