1996 Volvo 850 R

Highlights

• Original Volan wheels and original radio
• In current ownership for over four years with considerable mechanical investment
• Accompanied by a large history file and Volvo service record print-out
• Sought-after estate body style
• MOT until 8th March 2027 with no advisories

The Appeal

An unlikely star of the British Touring Car Championship, the Volvo 850R estate is one of the most celebrated fast wagons of the 1990s. With its turbocharged five-cylinder engine and sporting credentials wrapped in a practical package, it has earned a devoted following among enthusiasts who value performance and everyday usability in equal measure.

This UK-specification example has been in the current owner's care since January 2022, during which time it has received significant mechanical attention. Highlights include a suspension overhaul with Koni STR shock absorbers and Lesjofors springs, a timing belt and water pump service, upgraded brake discs and pads at all four corners, rear main seal and crankshaft oil seal replacement, and a new fuel pump fitted by a Volvo specialist. The car retains a superb original interior, complete with its factory radio. Paintwork was addressed in late 2024 with a respray of the spoiler and boot lid, along with a roof repair and blend. Maintained throughout the current ownership by a known 850R specialist and an experienced Volvo enthusiast, this is a well-documented and well-cared-for example of an increasingly collectable Q car.

Key Information

• Mileage: 165,415 miles (odometer cogs replaced in 2019; accompanied by a Volvo service record print-out)
• Country of registration: United Kingdom
• Technical inspection status: MOT until 8th March 2027 (no advisories)
• Technical specs: 2.3-litre turbocharged five-cylinder petrol, four-speed Aisin AW50-42LE electronically controlled gearbox
• Paperwork: Box of service and maintenance paperwork, Volvo service record print-out from the manufacturer; original service book not present

The Detail

• Major service carried out in March 2023, including oil and filter, throttle cable, engine mounting bushes, timing belt tensioner and water pump, auxiliary belt tensioner and idler
• Upgraded front and rear brake discs and pads with calliper carriers fitted in March 2023
• Suspension overhauled in March 2022 with Koni STR shock absorbers, Lesjofors springs, control arm, link rods, and lower transmission torque arm
• Rear main seal and PCV/rear crankshaft oil seal replaced in May 2022
• Heater matrix replaced in March 2022
• AC clutch repaired and system confirmed working in June 2022
• Jetex catback exhaust fitted in March 2021
• ABS sensors replaced in September 2021
• Spoiler and boot lid resprayed and lacquered, roof mark repaired and blended in September 2024
• New fuel pump fitted by a Volvo specialist between 2025 and 2026
• New thermostat, coolant sensor, air flow meter, battery, side repeater, and spare tyre also fitted between 2025 and 2026
• Load cover repair kit fitted between 2025 and 2026
• Heater blower motor resistor replaced in February 2024
• Grom Bluetooth audio and integrated phone charger fitted
• Four Pirelli P-Zero tyres fitted in January 2022 with tracking reset
• Odometer cogs replaced in March 2019

BEFORE YOU BUY

This sale is subject to the Car & Classic Terms and Conditions. By bidding and/or making an offer, you also agree to the following:

✓ The seller is registered as a private seller which means consumer rights stemming from EU consumer protection law do not come into effect. However, you are still covered by Car & Classic’s own Terms and Conditions..

✓ We request that a non-refundable fee be paid if you are the lucky winning bidder at auction or if your offer is accepted Please refer to our helpful FAQs and T&Cs for specific rates.

✓ This vehicle is “Sold As Seen”, on an “As Is Where Is’ basis and without warranty. Photos and descriptions are solely for guidance purposes and it's customary to carry out a full inspection of the vehicle prior to purchase for your own peace of mind.

✓ VAT is included in the buyer's fee. VAT may or may not be included in the final bid or offer price, as specified in the listing.

✓ We want a smooth transaction just as much as you do and as such we run all UK-registered cars and motorbikes for sale on Car & Classic through an online HPI check to verify that they show no insurance database markers for damage or theft, and have no finance owing, allowing you to bid with confidence.

✓ We also check whether vehicles are recorded as being written off as part of an insurance total loss claim at the time an advert is placed on Car & Classic and we helpfully provide write-off category labels (Cat C/D/S/N) for your assistance. However, the presence or absence of a label does not guarantee the vehicle’s status and it is always worthwhile carrying out your own full vehicle history check before making an offer on a vehicle.

✓ Buyers are responsible for vehicle collection

or delivery. Importing vehicles may result in additional customs duties and import taxes so it's worth checking beforehand. It is the bidders responsibility to confirm import eligibility prior to purchase.