1985 Volvo 740 (744) Dimensions, Size & Specs

With a width of 1760 mm (69.3 inches), the Volvo 740 (744) is narrower than many modern sedans, which often exceed 1800 mm. This relatively moderate width helps the car fit more easily into tighter parking spaces and narrow urban streets, making it well suited for environments where maneuverability can be a concern, without compromising interior comfort.

The Volvo 740 stands at 1430 mm (56.3 inches) tall, which provides good headroom for both front and rear passengers. Additionally, the relatively low height contributes to a lower center of gravity compared to taller sedans or SUVs, which typically benefits vehicle stability and handling, enhancing driving confidence especially on winding roads.

While specific curb weight values for the 1985 Volvo 740 (744) vary by configuration, models generally weigh around 1400 to 1500 kilograms (3086 to 3307 pounds). This moderate weight balances durability and solid build quality with reasonable fuel economy and performance, although heavier than smaller sedans, it reflects the robust construction typical of Volvo vehicles of that era.

The Volvo 740 (744) offers a spacious interior comparable to or exceeding many sedans from the mid-1980s. Its long length of 4785 mm (188.4 inches) translates to generous legroom and headroom, especially in the rear seats. The boxy design maximizes usable cabin volume, contributing to comfortable seating for five adults and a capacious trunk area.

Standard garages typically have a width of about 2.4 to 2.7 meters (7.9 to 8.9 feet) and a length of around 4.8 to 6 meters (15.7 to 19.7 feet). Given the Volvo 740's length of 4785 mm (188.4 inches) and width of 1760 mm (69.3 inches), it fits comfortably within the typical garage dimensions, allowing for door opening and maneuvering space. However, care should be taken in narrower or unusually small garages.

The Volvo 740 (744) was essentially a continuation and refinement of the original 700 series introduced earlier. Dimensionally, the 1985 Volvo 740 retained very similar size metrics to its immediate predecessors, with only minor tweaks for improved aerodynamics and styling. Length and width changes were minimal, maintaining the familiar roomy cabin and sedan footprint intended for driver comfort and practicality.

Compared to its European peers such as the BMW 5 Series (E28) and Mercedes-Benz W124 midsize sedans, the Volvo 740 (744) is similar in length but typically narrower and slightly lower in height. This results in a somewhat more compact footprint while still offering substantial interior volume. The Volvo's boxy design contrasts with the more aerodynamic shapes of competitors, favoring interior spaciousness over aerodynamic efficiency.

The 1985 Volvo 740 (744) generation is known for its robust build quality, safety innovations, and practicality. It came as a mid-size family sedan with a boxy, straightforward design that emphasized durability and passenger comfort. Features often included front and rear crumple zones, a driver airbag in later models, and a solid chassis, making it one of the safest cars of its era. The car's engineering focused on longevity and reliability, contributing to its lasting popularity among enthusiasts and daily users alike.