| Production | |
|---|---|
| Model Year: | 1974 |
| Production Years: | 1974 - 1993 discontinued in 1993 |
The Volvo 240 Combi (P245) represents a classic station wagon model produced by Volvo from 1974 until 1993, making it one of the brand's most enduring and iconic vehicles. Known for its boxy yet functional design, the 240 Combi is a symbol of reliability and practicality, featuring robust construction and ample cargo space ideal for families and those needing versatile transport. It was built on the 240 series platform but distinguished by its extended rear section that adds substantial luggage capacity compared to the sedan variant. Although specific dimensions for this particular generation can vary slightly over its long production run, the Volvo 240 Combi typically measures approximately 4.7 meters (around 185 inches) in length and has a width of about 1.7 meters (67 inches). Its height usually stands near 1.4 meters (55 inches), contributing to a stable driving profile with good road presence. The vehicle's weight varies depending on the model year and equipment but generally hovers around 1,300 to 1,400 kilograms (2,870 to 3,090 pounds). Powered by straightforward and reliable inline-four engines, it offers balanced performance focused on durability rather than outright speed. The 240 Combi was prized for its solid safety features for the time, including reinforced frame structures and effective braking systems, helping it gain a reputation for robustness and longevity. With its spacious interior and rear cargo area, the P245 catered well to active lifestyles, offering both passenger comfort and large load capacity. This generation of Volvo station wagons remains celebrated among car enthusiasts and daily drivers alike for its blend of classic styling, dependable engineering, and practical dimensions that meet diverse needs. Overall, the Volvo 240 Combi is a timeless example of Swedish automotive design focused on usability and safety, perfectly suited for those valuing tradition and functional utility in a family vehicle.
Discover the standout features that make the 1974 Volvo 240 Combi a leader in its class
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The Volvo 240 Combi (P245), produced from 1974 to 1993, has an overall length of approximately 4,670 millimeters (183.9 inches) and a width of about 1,770 millimeters (69.7 inches). These dimensions make it a relatively spacious station wagon for its time, providing ample interior space for passengers and cargo. Its length provides good stability on the road, while the width ensures comfortable seating arrangements and cargo capacity. These measurements helped establish the Volvo 240 Combi as a practical family vehicle during its production years.
The height of the Volvo 240 Combi (P245) is around 1,430 millimeters (56.3 inches). This moderate height offers a good balance between interior headroom and a low center of gravity, which aids in vehicle stability and handling. Because of its reasonable height, it easily fits into most standard residential garages without requiring modifications. This makes the Volvo 240 Combi convenient for everyday use while ensuring that owners can park it comfortably indoors, protecting it from weather elements and contributing to the vehicle's longevity.
The curb weight of the Volvo 240 Combi (P245) typically ranges around 1,350 to 1,450 kilograms (2,976 to 3,197 pounds), depending on trim and specific configurations. This weight is considered moderate for a station wagon of its era, contributing to solid road presence and enhanced safety during driving. The weight also influences fuel consumption and acceleration, with the car favoring stability and durability over sporty performance. Volvo's sturdy build and weight distribution ensure that despite its size, the 240 Combi remains predictable and secure on various road conditions.
The Volvo 240 Combi (P245) is designed primarily as a family-friendly station wagon with spacious cargo capacity and seating. It comfortably seats five passengers with ample legroom and headroom, thanks to its roomy interior dimensions. The cargo space behind the rear seats is approximately 430 liters (15.2 cubic feet) and can be extended significantly by folding down the rear seats, allowing for bulky items to be carried with ease. This flexibility made the 240 Combi popular for families and those needing practical storage without compromising passenger comfort.
The Volvo 240 Combi (P245) features a wheelbase of about 2,645 millimeters (104.1 inches) and a ground clearance of approximately 165 millimeters (6.5 inches). The generous wheelbase contributes to a smooth and stable ride by enhancing the vehicle's balance and minimizing road vibrations. The ground clearance allows the vehicle to handle moderate uneven road surfaces and minor obstacles without risking damage to the undercarriage. Together, these factors help provide a comfortable ride experience typical of Volvo’s engineering philosophy focused on safety and practicality.
Yes, the Volvo 240 Combi (P245) fits comfortably into a standard domestic garage. With a length of about 4.67 meters (183.9 inches), width of 1.77 meters (69.7 inches), and a height of roughly 1.43 meters (56.3 inches), it is well within the typical garage dimensions encountered in most homes across Europe and North America. Homeowners usually find it easy to park this vehicle indoors without requiring special modifications or additional clearance, making it convenient for daily use and storage while protecting it from weather elements.
Compared to its predecessor, the Volvo 140 series, the 240 Combi (P245) retained much of the same basic platform but with some refinements. The Volvo 140 series station wagon had a slightly shorter length of approximately 4,660 millimeters (183.5 inches) and a similar width, but the 240 Combi improved on safety features, structural rigidity, and interior comfort. The 240’s boxier and more robust design resulted in a vehicle that felt more spacious and practical while maintaining compatibility with existing garage spaces. Dimensionally, both vehicles were close, but the 240 Combi offered better build quality and modernized styling.
When compared to other station wagons from the 1970s and 80s such as the Mercedes-Benz W123 wagon, BMW 3 Series Touring, or the Ford Granada Estate, the Volvo 240 Combi was competitive in size. Its length of 4,670 mm (183.9 inches) placed it in the mid-to-large station wagon class. While the width of 1,770 mm (69.7 inches) was slightly narrower than some contemporaries, the 240 was appreciated for its spacious and boxy interior layout, maximizing cargo and passenger space. Volvo’s focus on practicality and durability gave the 240 a reputation as one of the most functional wagons for family and utility use.
Throughout its production from 1974 to 1993, the Volvo 240 Combi (P245) featured a range of reliable and durable engine options. These included inline-four and inline-six engines with varying displacements, including 2.0L, 2.1L, 2.3L, and 2.4L variants equipped with both carburettors and fuel injection systems depending on the model year and market. The car was typically available with manual or automatic transmissions. Volvo prioritized reliability and safety over high performance, making these engines known for longevity and ease of maintenance, which contributed to the 240 Combi’s reputation as a dependable family wagon.
The Volvo 240 Combi (P245) was considered a benchmark for safety in its time. It came equipped with features such as crumple zones, a robust steel cage passenger compartment, three-point seat belts on all seating positions, and front disc brakes. Over the years, Volvo also introduced reinforced side-impact protection and side marker lights. Innovative for the era, these safety technologies helped earn the 240 series a reputation for providing exceptional occupant protection. Volvo’s commitment to safety significantly influenced global automotive safety standards and reinforced the 240 Combi’s legacy as one of the safest station wagons of its generation.
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