Chassis No. 158994

After World War II, Volvo seized the opportunity to introduce the PV 444, a compact car blending Swedish practicality with American styling. "PV" stands for personvagn or passenger car, and despite material shortages delaying production, public demand surged. By the late 1940s, series production began, featuring an overhead valve four-cylinder engine, independent front suspension with coil springs, a semi-elliptical leaf spring live rear axle, and a rigid unibody structure. Its durability, efficiency, and distinctive split windshield laid the foundation for Volvo's reputation for safety and reliability in the United States creating a truly global success.

According to the chassis trim tag this PV 444 was built in Gothenburg, Sweden optioned in Gold Beige (48). The Volvo Historical Archive notes that it was delivered to Detroit, Michigan in October 1957. This charming PV 444 was acquired by the consigner as a representative example of the earliest Volvo model sold in the United States. Acquired by the consignor in 2005, it is finished in red over a two-tone red and white vinyl interior with dark color accents and retains its trunk-mounted spare. With proven durability over the past 70 years, the Volvo PV 444 is a perfect entry into Swedish motoring. Though not a performance car, it keeps up with modern traffic. Durable, easy to maintain, and with abundant parts, it remains a practical and beloved Swedish classic today.