| Production | |
|---|---|
| Model Year: | 1958 |
The 1958 Volvo PV 544 is a hallmark of Volvo's engineering from the mid-20th century, reflecting robust build quality and iconic design. This classic sedan offers a uniquely rounded body style that was a considerable evolution from its predecessor, the PV 444. The PV 544 was known for its sturdiness, safety features, and relatively compact size which made it practical yet durable for its era. Although exact dimensions for the 1958 model vary slightly depending on sources, the PV 544 typically measured approximately 4,450 mm (175.2 inches) in length, 1,650 mm (65 inches) in width, and around 1,530 mm (60.2 inches) in height. The car’s curb weight hovered around 1,100 kg (2,425 lbs), placing it firmly in the mid-weight sedan category of its time. These measurements contributed to the car's manageable handling and good road presence. The PV 544 featured a spacious interior for a compact sedan of its generation, with comfortable seating accommodating four to five passengers, making it a popular choice for families and professionals alike in the late 1950s. Its design and size also made it versatile for urban and rural environments. Overall, the Volvo PV 544 (1958) remains a significant model in the brand's history, admired for its blend of functionality, safety, and timeless style, making it a notable point of reference when comparing classic car sizes from the 1950s.
Discover the standout features that make the 1958 Volvo PV 544 a leader in its class
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The 1958 Volvo PV 544 sedan features a length of approximately 4,350 mm (171.3 inches), a width of about 1,650 mm (64.9 inches), and a height close to 1,510 mm (59.4 inches). These compact dimensions reflect the car’s classic, streamlined shape that was designed for efficiency and practicality during its era. Its relatively modest size contributes to easier maneuverability and parking in urban environments while offering a comfortable cabin for its time.
The curb weight of the 1958 Volvo PV 544 sedan is roughly around 1,050 kilograms (2,315 pounds). This moderate weight lends the car a solid, stable feel on the road, which was appreciated for its time. The weight balance, combined with a rear-wheel-drive setup, provides good traction and driving confidence, though the car may feel heavier and less nimble compared to modern vehicles. Overall, the weight supports a robust build and historical durability.
The 1958 Volvo PV 544 was designed primarily as a compact four-door sedan with seating for up to five passengers, including the driver. The cabin space is modest but thoughtfully laid out to maximize passenger comfort, with ample headroom and legroom suitable for average-sized adults. Though it lacks the expansive interiors of modern sedans, the PV 544 offered comfortable seating with durable upholstery and practical dashboard instrumentation for its era.
Given its overall dimensions—approximately 4,350 mm (171.3 inches) in length, 1,650 mm (64.9 inches) in width, and 1,510 mm (59.4 inches) in height—the 1958 Volvo PV 544 fits comfortably within the dimensions of a typical residential single-car garage. Standard garages usually measure around 6,000 mm (236 inches) in length and 3,000 mm (118 inches) in width, so the PV 544’s modest size ensures easy parking and maneuverability inside such spaces.
The 1958 Volvo PV 544 retained many dimensional similarities to its predecessor, the PV 444, with subtle improvements in size and design. The PV 444 was slightly shorter in length, measuring around 4,320 mm (170 inches), and had a comparable width and height to the PV 544. The PV 544 introduced a more rounded and modern body style, enhancing interior space usability and visibility. Though the changes in size were minimal, the PV 544 was considered a more refined evolution with improved build quality.
Compared to other European sedans of the late 1950s, such as the Volkswagen Beetle, Fiat 1100, and Morris Minor, the Volvo PV 544 was slightly larger in overall length and width, offering a more spacious interior and a sturdier build. The PV 544’s robust construction and safety-oriented engineering set it apart, emphasizing durability and occupant protection over sporty dimensions or flashy styling. Its size was practical without being cumbersome, striking a balance between compactness and comfort among peers.
The 1958 Volvo PV 544 is equipped with a fuel tank capacity of approximately 37 liters (9.8 gallons). With its relatively economical four-cylinder engine, the vehicle offered a reasonable driving range for its time. Fuel consumption would typically fall between 7 to 9 liters per 100 km (approximately 26 to 32 miles per gallon), depending on driving conditions, allowing for roughly 400 to 530 kilometers (250 to 330 miles) before needing to refuel, making it practical for both city and longer drives.
The 1958 Volvo PV 544 features a modest trunk space typical of compact sedans from the late 1950s. While exact cubic capacity is not commonly specified, the luggage compartment is sufficient for everyday use such as groceries or small travel bags, benefiting from a practical rear-opening trunk lid. The rear seats can sometimes be folded down or removed in some configurations to increase cargo capacity, making it versatile for carrying larger items despite its overall compact footprint.
Volvo has long been renowned for safety, and the PV 544 introduced several notable advancements for its time. These include a robust steel frame for improved crash protection, safety door locks, and padded dashboards in later models. The PV 544 also featured improved braking systems compared to earlier models. While it predates many modern safety technologies such as airbags or ABS, the car's engineering prioritized durability and occupant protection, setting a foundation for future Volvo safety innovations.
Owning a classic car like the 1958 Volvo PV 544 requires adherence to regular maintenance schedules to ensure longevity and reliability. Common maintenance considerations include periodic checks on the mechanical fuel pump, carburetor adjustments, ignition system tuning, and rust prevention due to the car’s steel body construction. Owners should also be mindful of sourcing parts, which may be limited but supported by dedicated vintage Volvo communities. With proper care, the PV 544 can deliver a dependable driving experience and retain its classic charm.
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