Words like "Swedish tank" or "Swedish steel" are often used as synonyms for Volvo vehicles. The Volvo models of the 200 series are no exception: angular, solid, a body shape like a cabinet: The Volvo 200 series, which were in dealer showrooms from 1974, were the volume models of the Swedish car manufacturer in the 1970s and 1980s. The 200 series had increased in size and mass compared to its predecessor, which had been built for eight years, and became the epitome of road safety in the early 70s with its massive bumpers and large taillights. Like the entire vehicle, the type designation was pragmatic: standard 200 + 4 or 6 cylinders + optionally 2, 4 (sedan) or 5 doors (station wagon).

In this auction, a Volvo 244 GLE from the year of construction 1979 can be auctioned: Based on the type designation, it can be seen that it is the series 200 with four-cylinder and 4 doors (sedan). GLE stands for "Grand Luxe Executive", which was the highest equipment line from model year 1979 to 1983. The example offered here with the chassis number 2442M2397850 was first delivered to Italy in January 1979 and registered there for the first time. According to the seller, the Volvo spent a large part of its years in Turin, the last 4 years it then ran in Tyrol before it was brought to Germany. How many owners the Swede has in total is no longer known. A complete history of the car and the traceability of the mileage is not available. 1 ignition key and 1 trunk key are still available for the vehicle. According to the seller, this classic is handed over with H-approval, fresh technical approval and all the necessary documents for a German road approval. Matching numbers are given.

The unmistakably angular body of this saloon is presented in the paint colour green metallic. The special thing about the paint is that this Volvo has not yet undergone any repainting – so the 244 still has its first paint after 43 years. Therefore, one or the other traces of use can be found on the body, but this passes as patina and thus gives the Swede its own charm. No rust spots or external modifications can be found on the exterior. The voluminous bumpers do not show any parking bumps and the chrome still shines as it should. In 2017, the wash water nozzles were new and the headlight cleaning system left and right were also renewed. In 2021, the fog lights were chrome-plated.

Fulda EcoControl tyres in size 185/70 can be found in good condition with sufficient tread on the car. Original 14-inch Volvo rims, which were attached to the Swede in 2021, ensure a good external appearance of the sedan in multi-spoke design. The 4 disc brakes in good shape, which were completely overhauled in 2017, provide proper deceleration. There are no complaints about the chassis.

The Volvo is also angular in design in the interior: Here, the angular lines continue from the outside. The interior is covered with slight patina. The beige full leather seats are completely intact and ensure good comfort, only the outer side bolster of the driver's seat is slightly stressed – otherwise there are no signs of wear or damage to the interior. In 2017, various switches and door contacts were renewed and the entire interior was subjected to a detailed cleaning. Due to the GLE equipment, in addition to the leather interior, the following features are on board the 244: sunroof, power windows at the front, headlight cleaning system and a contemporary Volvo cassette radio.

In the middle of the dashboard is the rev counter, to the left of it sits the display for the speed: On the speedometer 113,800 kilometers can be read, which are not easily comprehensible due to the lack of history, but appear credible due to the initial paint of the car and the all-round healthy body substance. All instruments have an indecent function.

The 2.0-litre in-line four-cylinder engine of the Volvo 244 GLE delivers 117 hp, the rear wheels are driven by a 4-speed manual transmission with selectable overdrive to reduce engine speed. In 2017, the shift contact for the overdrive was renewed, the timing belt replaced and the ignition adjusted. In 2019, the engine was adjusted and the steering gear was new. In 2021, the following parts were renewed: fuel tank, electric fuel pump, fuel filter. According to the seller, a fresh service is still done before the handover to the new owner, so that he can relax and take the road under the wheels.

The underbody and the wheel arch shells are in impeccable condition, in 2019 a new exhaust system was installed on the underside of the Volvo 244 GLE.