This Volvo 544 is said to have been rebuilt from the ground up, with minor work required to finish. Although the posting isn’t particularly detailed, photos suggest decent paintwork and panel fit. The interior and engine compartment also look good. Find it here on Craigslist in Glen Allen, Virginia for $6k. Special thanks to BaT reader Jason S. for this submission.
Exterior color looks to be #65 Pastel Gray, presumably a repaint. The bright front and rear fender trim has been removed. Trim rings (Swedish “snobbringar”) are present, although hubcaps are missing. The rear bumper wears a satin finish, and the overrider bars commonly fitted to U.S.-spec 544s are not fitted.
Although the styling of the 444/544 is often said to have been inspired by late-1940’s Fords, the first prototypes were shown in Stockholm in 1944. The visible outside door handle is properly aligned on this example, unlike many others we see. We’re guessing that the front-hinged hood is not fully closed in the above photo.
The dash looks to be in good shape, with a replacement or aftermarket dash pad installed. Steering wheel and horn ring appear to be in better-than-average shape. Exposed screws attaching the door cards and kick panels are non-stock, as is the velour upholstery. The audio head unit and kick panel-mounted speakers look to have been later additions as well.
The engine compartment presents a tidy appearance, and although the 1.8 liter B18 “red block” four sports an incorrect finish, the Volvo-branded air filter housings are a nice touch. Fifty years ago, a 544 won the arduous East African Safari rally, and this example could be a good basis for an updated rally car build or a pleasant weekend driver as it sits.