Description
The Volvo PV544 is a well known and respected competition vehicle, with examples of the breed racking up numerous overall and class wins in rallies across the globe, including outright wins on the last three consecutive editions of the gruelling Rally of the Tests.
This particular example was purchased by the current custodian to provide an entry to these wonderful endurance events. However, work commitments and competing in sprints and hillclimbs with an MG Midget have taken priority and it is with some regret that the Volvo is now offered for sale.
HSL 380 was prepared for competition by the previous owner in the early 2000’s and has some competition provenance and history, evidenced by scrutineering stickers present on the roll cage, with finishes on the fringes of the top ten overall being achieved.
Recently the engine had a top end refresh with a light skim and fresh head gasket applied, along with a general service, meaning that the vehicle is mechanically in good condition and ready for a new custodian to enjoy.
The 1600cc Volvo B Series engine enjoys a number of period appropriate modifications including a high lift 280 degree camshaft, twin carbs and a performance exhaust system. The car pulls very well and makes a very pleasing noise whilst doing so! The engine is protected by a sump guard while power is transmitted via a four-speed manual gearbox.
Other mechanical modifications inline with its intended use for historic road, endurance and regularity rallies include twin front shock absorbers (a period mod first used in 1965 on the Safari winning car of successful Kenyan rally driver Joginder Singh.
The interior is well appointed for rallies, featuring a half roll cage, full harness seat belts, Brantz trip meter, map light and fire extinguisher to provide the occupants with the tools needed to compete successfully on long distance motorsport events. A later set of seats has been added to improve comfort, although it is recommended to further change these for a proper motorsport seat in future.
The cars history includes an invoice for a bare metal respray approximately 20 years ago and having competed on many events since it now carries a patina appropriate for its heritage. The red paint polishes up well, although there are various minor marks to the body and paint in keeping with a well loved but used motorsport machine. The drivers door skin (nearside on this left hand drive example) does have a split on the upper surface and a localised repair is recommended.
The car comes with a comprehensive history file including many receipts from the last twenty years. Recent expenditure includes the aforementioned head work, head skim, valves lapped and new seals fitted, new head gasket, water pump, distributor service, points, condenser, rotor arm, cap, leads and coil. New air filters, spark plugs and alternator belt complete the engine side of things.
New radiator and hoses, engine mounts, steering control arms, discs, hubs and bearings on the front, plus shoes cylinders and adjusters on the rear. New flexi hoses and brake pipes have also been fitted, along with prop UJ, panhard rod bushes, gearbox and diff oils renewed. Mechanically the car is in sound condition with some superficial aesthetics in regard to paint and interior. The total of all this work over the last few years is well over £5k.
HSL 380 is essentially an historic Cat 1 rally car and has been used as such with some success in both national and international rallies. This PV444 provides a low-cost way into having terrific fun in motorsport with the potential to secure further excellent results in future. A modest spares package is provided which includes a second set of wheels and tyres.
The car is in storage with Rally Prep in Cornwall (the vehicles owner is based in Somerset).
Viewings and test drives are happily accommodated with prior notice, which can include inspection on a vehicle ramp. WhatsApp video walk rounds can also be provided upon request.
