Paul Newman was not just a legendary actor but also a passionate car enthusiast and a successful racing driver. One of the cars in his impressive collection was a 1988 Volvo 740 Turbo, which he swapped an interesting engine into. This particular Volvo 740 is now up for sale, and its unique history and modifications make it a sought-after vehicle. This article will take a closer look at Paul Newman’s Turbo Volvo 740.

What engine is in Volvo 740 Turbo?

The Volvo 740 was available with several engine options from 1984 to 1992. The most common engine was a 2.3-liter inline-four-cylinder engine that produced between 113 and 162 horsepower, depending on the model year and specific engine configuration. However, the motor in Paul Newman’s 740 wagon was from a different vehicle.

Now available on Bring-A-Trailer, Newman’s Volvo has an engine from the famous Buick GNX. The GNX engine is a turbocharged 3.8L V6 that produces 276 horsepower. In addition, a few supporting modifications were done, like an engine tuning chip, a large oil cooler, and custom fabricated exhaust. The improvements easily put the car to over 300 horsepower. Quite the sleeper considering it’s an old wagon.

Interior features of a Volvo 740

The 1988 Volvo 740 Turbo boasted a comfortable and well-designed interior with a range of features ahead of their time. One of the standout features was the “floating” center console, a unique design element that gave the interior a modern and sleek look. In addition, Newman’s car has black leather upholstery, storable rear seats, power windows and door locks, and heated front seats.

There is a VDO boost gauge mounted to the A-pillar. The only other interior modification is a Scanmaster diagnostic tool mounted to the steering column. Overall, the interior of the 1988 Volvo 740 Turbo offers a premium, comfortable, functional experience that holds up today.

How much does a Volvo 740 Turbo cost?

The price of a Volvo 740 Turbo varies depending on factors such as the car’s condition, mileage, and location. On the used car market, a well-maintained Volvo 740 Turbo can range in price from around $3,000 to $10,000 or more. Low mileage, rare colors, and a documented service history can increase the car’s value.

In addition, modified versions of the Volvo 740 can command even higher prices due to their unique history and modifications. At the time of writing, the auction for Newman’s Volvo is at $30,000. Ultimately, the price of a Volvo 740 Turbo is determined by the demand for the vehicle and the specific characteristics of the car itself.

Should you modify a Volvo 740?

In conclusion, Paul Newman’s Turbo Volvo 740 is a rare and unique car that stands out in vintage automobiles. With its powerful Buick GNX engine and customized exhaust, this old wagon is anything but ordinary. The interior features of the 1988 Volvo 740 also provide a premium experience that still holds up well today.

While the price of a Volvo 740 can vary depending on several factors, the current auction for Newman’s car is a testament to the demand for this rare and highly-modified vehicle. Overall, this Turbo Volvo 740 is a testament to Newman’s passion for cars and his love for unique, high-performance vehicles.