1974 Volvo 260 Combi (P265) Dimensions, Size & Specs

The Volvo 260 Combi boasts a generous cargo area typical of station wagons from the mid-1970s to early 1980s, making it highly practical. With its extended rear overhang and boxy design, it offers ample space for luggage, sports equipment, or groceries. The rear seats fold down to further increase cargo capacity, allowing for flexible interior layout. Compared to other wagons of the same period, the 260 Combi is recognized for prioritizing comfort and utility, often exceeding competitors in usable interior volume rather than just exterior length. This versatility helped it gain popularity among families and those requiring substantial carrying capacity.

The Volvo 260 Combi weighs approximately 1400 to 1500 kilograms (around 3086 to 3307 pounds), depending on the specific trim and optional equipment fitted. This weight reflects its sturdy construction and safety-focused design typical of Volvo vehicles from that era. While the relatively heavy body contributes to a stable and solid feel at speed, it also means acceleration is moderate compared to contemporary smaller vehicles. The weight distribution, combined with rear-wheel drive, offers predictable handling and a comfortable ride, although fuel efficiency is somewhat impacted by the heavier chassis.

The wheelbase of the Volvo 260 Combi is approximately 2667 mm (105 inches). This length strikes a balance between ride comfort and maneuverability, providing a smooth driving experience even over long distances. A longer wheelbase generally enhances passenger comfort by reducing pitch and providing more stable handling characteristics. For a station wagon, this dimension offers sufficient interior space for passengers in both front and rear seats, making it ideal for family use without sacrificing the ability to navigate urban or tight spaces effectively.

Given its length of about 4770 mm (187.8 inches), width of 1770 mm (69.7 inches), and height of 1440 mm (56.7 inches), the Volvo 260 Combi fits comfortably into most standard residential garages. Standard single-car garages typically measure around 6 meters (20 feet) in depth and 3 meters (10 feet) in width, which provides enough clearance for the car with room to open doors and move around. Users with more compact garage spaces might find it a snug fit but still manageable. The relatively moderate height ensures clearance even in garages with lower door frames.

The Volvo 260 Combi is an evolution of the Volvo 140 series wagon, retaining many styling cues but with enhancements aimed at increased luxury and refinement. Dimensionally, the 260 Combi is slightly larger and heavier than the 140 series wagons, reflecting improvements in safety features and interior appointments. The length and wheelbase were extended modestly to provide better interior space, while the design adopted more squared-off lines and upgraded trim details typical of the late 1970s luxury vehicles. The 260 series also introduced 6-cylinder engines replacing some 4-cylinder units from the 140s, emphasizing smoothness and power. Overall, the 260 Combi offers a more mature and premium feel compared to its predecessor while maintaining robust everyday usability.

During the 1970s and early 1980s, the Volvo 260 Combi competed with other European and American station wagons like the Mercedes-Benz W123 wagon, BMW 3 Series Touring (early models), and American wagons such as the Ford LTD Country Squire. Compared dimensionally, the Volvo 260 Combi offered a balanced length and width, not as large as some American wagons but larger than compact European wagons. What set the 260 Combi apart was its reputation for exceptional build quality, reliability, and safety innovation, which many competing models could not match at the same price point. While performance from its 6-cylinder engine was modest compared to sportier wagons, its emphasis on practicality, roomy cargo space, and comfort made it a favorite among buyers preferring understated durability.

The Volvo 260 Combi stands around 1440 mm (56.7 inches) high and measures about 1770 mm (69.7 inches) in width. This relatively modest height aids in lowering the center of gravity, improving vehicle stability and handling, especially on curves and at highway speeds. The width is typical for mid-size station wagons and strikes a good balance between interior space and ease of maneuverability. For parking, the width ensures that this car fits well within standard parking spaces without being overly bulky, while the lower height facilitates easy access to roof-mounted storage options if fitted.

The Volvo 260 Combi typically features a fuel tank capacity of around 70 liters (approximately 18.5 US gallons). Fuel efficiency varies depending on engine tuning and driving conditions, but the 6-cylinder engines common in this model generally returned fuel economy figures around 8 to 10 liters per 100 kilometers (roughly 23 to 29 miles per gallon US). This level of consumption was typical for a mid-size luxury wagon of the era, balancing power and reliability over fuel economy. Owners valued the large fuel tank for long-distance cruising without frequent refueling stops, especially considering the car’s suitability for family and touring use.

Volvo has long been recognized for its commitment to automotive safety, and the 260 Combi exemplifies this philosophy. This generation incorporated robust body construction with reinforced passenger compartments and crumple zones designed to absorb impact energy in collisions. It often came equipped with safety features advanced for its time, including three-point seatbelts for all seating positions and energy-absorbing steering columns. The boxy design not only maximized interior volume but also enhanced visibility for the driver, thus improving situational awareness. Interiors were built with high-quality materials, focusing on comfort and durability, reflecting Volvo’s emphasis on long-term usability and passenger protection.