To judge people only by the cars they drive would be a mistake. Yet at Volvo we know that the Volvo 244 appeals to those who are accustomed to the best. People who appreciate the different facets of motoring: reliability, durability, comfort, safety and overall economy.
The built-in quality of a Volvo is not only reflected in its reliability and durability, but also in the attention to detail, resulting in a comprehensive specification.
The design features of the Volvo 244 such as the responsive steering and suspension provide handling and performance to meet all motoring requirements.
The Volvo 244 is built for people who will not compromise on quality; who appreciate painstaking attention to detail; and who appreciate good taste rather than fashion trends. People who appreciate the best.
Engine 4-cylinder
Horsepower 5,500
Transmission (man)
One should never judge a book by its cover, or so it is said. Likewise a car. The character of a car doesn't just come from its looks, but also from what is under-neath. Take a closer look at the Volvo 244, and it will be easier to appreciate its truly fine qualities. Through long term development pro-grammes, Volvo has continually improved the overall specification of its product. Not dramatically, that isn't Volvo's way, but soundly, through rational development. Not only has the Volvo 244 become a sater car, it has also become easier to drive, as its good road holding and handling not only contribute to safety but also to driving pleasure. This all round approach to the discerning motorist's needs has resulted in the 244 being built to fit today's economic and motoring environment.
The Volvo 244 has big powerful halogen headlights. A bulb integrity sensor on the dashboard warns of a dipped head-light, brake light or tail light failure. The day running lights make sure that not only other motorists, but also pedestrians can see you coming from far off, especially in bad weather.
All-round driver vision in the Volvo 244 is better than 90%. Also, the high-impact resistant glass of the laminated windscreen means there is no risk of it suddenly shattering if hit by flying stones and the like.
The stout rubber faced aluminium alloy bumpers of the Volvo 244 shrug off minor parking knocks at speeds of up to 5 km/hour.
Another example of the careful thought put into the product is the holder on the inside of the fuel filler flap. It is designed to hold the cap during re-filling, so there is little risk of forgetting it at a petrol station.
The roof lining is made of moulded fibreglass for improved insulation and safety. This material, and all others used in the interior of the car are flame resistant.
The outside door handles are fully recessed. There are child-proof locks on rear doors. In addition, all doors incorporate anti-intrusion members which give added protection in the event of side impact.
The efficient heating and ventilation system provides a smooth through-flow of air from 12 strategically placed outlets. Rapid defrosting is ensured by the three speed fan and heater output which is thermostatically controlled.
The 244's advanced dual circuit braking system is so designed that if one circuit fails, the other will still give approximately 80% of full braking capacity, without necessitating much greater pedal pressure.
The spring struts of the front suspension have galvanised reinforced anchorages.
Comfort is not a luxury, it's a necessity. A driver sitting comfortably drives safer.
Volvo, therefore, go to considerable lengths to make sure that you sit comfortably-by anyone's standards. Take the front seats for example; considered by many to be the best and safest available. Securely anchored to the floor for safety's sake, they incorporate more adjustment possibilities than you may be used to. The backrest, which has an integral head restraint, is infinitely variable down to a reclining position. An adjustable lumbar support is built into the backrest to provide extra pressure to the small of the back. The seat not only slides forwards and backwards, it can also be raised or lowered to nine different positions.
The Volvo seat was developed in co-operation with orthopaedic specialists not only for pleasing visual lines, but also to provide an anatomically correct form. The rear seat is similar in principle. Firmly padded and with the right degree of contour to keep three people seated in long lasting comfort. Folding down the armrest gives that extra comfort for two. There are not only inertia reel belts for the front seats, but also for two rear passengers. The centre rear passenger has a lap belt. "Fasten seat belts" reminder lamps fitted front and rear prompt passengers to use the belts.
But comfort is more than the seating alone. Space being another contribution to allround comfort. The careful design of the Volvo leaves the occupants with space to move lazy limbs freely during long journeys, even with three people in the rear seat. When you're looking at the Volvo 244 in the showroom, relax for a while by sitting in it and appreciating its spacious comfort. While appreciating comfort, one can appreciate details, such as the illuminated seat belt locks in the front and the illuminated ashtray in the rear.
Behind the wheel of a Volvo 244 you will find an impressive array of instruments, switches and warning lights. Blended into the smooth contours of the fascia, the whole layout has been designed for easy reading and finger-tip control.
There is a warning light which indicates dipped headlight, tail light, brake light and even rear number plate light failure. Other warning lights show brake circuit failure, parking brake application, alternator charge, oil pressure, turn indicators, main beam, heated rear window, choke and hazard warning.
The heating and ventilation controls are housed in the centre console. There are 12 air entry points to ensure efficient throughflow ventilation, of which four are multidirectional. The heater settings are thermostatically controlled, and the fan has three speeds. The centre console has a cigar lighter and an ashtray as well as spaces for additional switches for extras such as spotlights, electric aerials, rear fog-lights, etc.
The vast boot of the Volvo 244 gives 21.5 cu.ft. of usable space and is deep enough for cases to be stood handles up.
There are two alternative power units available with the Volvo 244. The DL model is powered by the 100 hp DIN version. In the GL model you will find the 123 hp DIN type with Continuous Injection fuel supply, and fully transistorised ignition system. Both units are 2.1 litre capacity with four cylinders. The aluminium alloy cylinder head is of the cross flow type, and incorporates an overhead camshaft which offers better response and low speed pulling power. The cross flow type cylinder head also reduces the risk of vapour locks and running-on. Whichever you choose, both engines require only economy grade fuel, which is a boost not only to your pocket but also to the environment.
Automatic or manual?
Whether you prefer automatic or manual, you can be assured that gear changing will be a smooth operation. With the automatic transmission you still have the opportunity to choose your gears, and first gear can be selected at speeds up to 37 mph, a great help if you want to slow down quickly.
In the case of the manual, there are two alternatives. On the DL model there is a straight forward fully synchronised four speed unit with a built-in reverse interlock mechanism. The GL unit has the same features plus electrically operated overdrive which is activated by a switch housed in the top of the gear lever.
When you drive the Volvo 244 your immediate impression will be how comfortable and well planned everything is. But what will probably surprise you is its wonderful manoeuvrability; the ease with which you can move the car in and out of those tight parking spots.
On the open road the Volvo 244 really excels. The precise rack and pinion steering leads the car effortlessly along winding roads. Apart from the steering, the stabilised spring strut front suspension and live reg axle contribute greatly to the superb overall handling characteristics. In addition, the car is fitted with wide steel braced radial tyres for maximum grip on tight corners, and firm control in the wet.
The net result of these combined features is a car that performs extremely well in all conditions. Its road holding, handling and ride make travelling a pleasure and allow the driver to approach his driving in a relaxed and confident manner.
Volvo's rack and pinion steering gives immediate response to steering wheel movement. With a tight turning circle of only 32'2" the Volvo 244 is much more manoeuvrable than many small cars despite the wealth of room inside.
There is a growing tendency for people to become more safety conscious. We are pleased, because one of our strong points is safety. Over the years we have introduced many safety features into our production models. This resulted in us often being ahead of legislators, and legislation. (For example, we introduced laminated windscreens as far back as 1944.) Thus, we have pioneered motoring safety in many ways, and can rightly say that the Volvo 244 is probably the safest production car available.
There are two types of safety, preventive (active) and protective (passive). Good roadholding, braking, visibility, steering and mid-range acceleration are important to preventing accidents occurring. The Volvo 244 has them all. Alas, try as we might, we cannot influence everything. But it is nice to know that in the event of a collision, impact absorbing front and rear crumple zones protect the passenger compartment, which is itself a sturdy safety cage.
Years of research, often unique, mean that today's Volvo 244 offers the driver and passenger a high level of protection. This is, of course, provided that the seat belts are worn properly.
The structural strength and torsional rigidity of Volvo's rugged unitised body forms the basis for overall passenger protection, but surrounding the passenger compartment itself is a cage of closed section box profiles of immense strength and body metal crumple zones at the front and the rear.
The Volvo 244's steering system gives fivefold safety in a head-on collision: 1) The lower steering rod folds downwards; 2) The steering tube collapses telescopically; 3) The steering rod moves downwards away from the driver; 4) The wheel's anchorage to the column crumples, and 5) The wide bolstered hub spreads the impact pressure.
Sturdy tubular members built into the doors give protection from the sides and burst-proof latches prevent the doors from flying open even when the car is damaged extensively.
Few other cars give as much all-round visibility as the Volvo 244 - better than 90%. The electrically heated rear window and very efficient ventilation make sure that driving visibility is not impaired by misty windows.
Each half of the triangle-split, dual circuit braking system operates on both front wheels and one of each of the rear wheels simultaneously. So, even if one circuit fails completely, the other will still brake through two front wheels and one rear wheel giving about 80% of full effect. This power assisted system has disc brakes on all wheels, separate rear wheel drums for the handbrake, and relief valves to the rear to prevent the rear wheels locking up prematurely in an emergency. The brake lines are made of rust-resistant alloy consisting mainly of copper and nickel.
In Sweden you can buy virtually any make of car. Thus, the non-partisan Swedish Motor Vehicle Inspection Company has a lot of cars to look at. They have computed the probable life expectancy of a Volvo at 16.6 years - almost two years longer than the next nearest make. To achieve this durability, quality control is imperative. Design, materials, assembly work; all must be first-rate.
To the car owner, rust is an expense and the cause of what could be a dangerous car. This is why Volvo builds exposed body pressings of hot-dipped galvanised sheet steel, in all about 3.5 square metres being used per car. Which explains some of the lasting quality of a Volvo 244.
Other explanations are: the door sills are cavity-ventilated by the slipstream and the outsides of the sills are sprayed with polyester, the insides with a rust inhibitor.
From the ground up, Volvo rustproofing is applied as follows: 1) phosphating of raw body metal; 2) total submersion in an electro- dip bath of primer; 3) oven hardening; 4) application of filler coat and joint sealing by means of compound and caulking; 5) application of top coats. On top of this, the underbody is treated with rustproofing fluid and compound at the factory. A rust inhibiting agent is also sprayed into all closed members and sections to combat rust.
The more vulnerable parts of the exhaust system, including the rear silencer, are made of aluminised sheet steel. This also helps keep the car in top trim and fewer visits to the workshop mean less costly motoring.
In a similar manner, the brake pipes of the Volvo 244 are made of a very rust-resistant alloy, the main constituents of which are copper and nickel. This is primarily for safety's sake; understandably, it saves you money too.
The 244 GL was created to meet the needs of those people who spend more time on the road. The people to whom driving is important, and very often enjoyable. People who appreciate a car with a little more flair and style of its own.
The Volvo 244 GL has plenty of flair. This is not only provided by the sun-roof, metallic paint, and delicately tinted windows. Nor by the 5.5" wide wheels with low profile steel radial tyres, which offer excellent road holding. Or even by the superb real hide seat and backrest facings (the driver's seat is electrically heated!). Not to mention the non-slip padded sports steering wheel. The GL flair is very much performance too. Its four cylinder 2.1 litre, aluminium head, overhead camshaft engine produces a brisk 123 hp DIN. This is achieved in no small part by the efficient Continuous Injection (CI) fuel delivery system. The solid-state ignition system means fewer adjustments, which results in better engine performance and greater reliability. As the diagram illustrates, this engine combines high output with good torque capabilities. The broken line on the graph indicates output at various engine speeds. The tachometer is an ideal aid for the driver who really enjoys fully utilising the engine's performance.
If you want an automatic, the 244 GL provides a smooth transmission with an illuminated six-position selector unit. Should you prefer manual, then it offers a fully synchromesh four speed gearbox with electrically operated overdrive.
Engines.
Four-cylinder, water-cooled with fivebearing crankshaft. Overhead camshaft and cross-flow aluminium-alloy cylinder head. Fuel requirement: 93 octane, economy grade.
Cooling system.
Frost-proofed and sealed. Holds 8.3 Imp. quarts (9.5 litres).
Electrical system.
12 V/60 Ah battery. 55 A alternator.
Fuel tank.
Capacity 13.2 Imp. galls. (60 litres). Safety location beside rear axle.
Transmission.
Manual: diaphragm spring type clutch. Four-speed, fully-synchronised. The Volvo 244 GL has overdrive operating on 4th gear. The Volvo 244 DL and GL are also available with a fully automatic transmission.
Steering gear.
Rack and pinion steering. Split steering column of safety type.
Suspension.
Front: spring strut type incorporating coil springs and double-acting telescopic shock absorbers. Stabiliser. Rear: live rear axle carried by longitudinal control arms and torque rods. Lateral location by track rod. Coil springs and double-acting shock absorbers. Stabiliser.
Braking system.
Self-adjusting disc brakes on all four wheels. Dual circuits, power assisted, each operating simultaneously on both front wheels and one each of the rear wheels. Special alloy brake pipes. A relief valve in each circuit prevents the rear wheels from locking prematurely in emergency braking. Master cylinder of stepped-bore type. Handbrake operates independently on separate rear wheel drums.
Instrumentation and controls.
Padded dashboard. Rheostat controlled instrument lighting. Six-figure mileometer, tripmeter, fuel gauge and coolant temperature gauge. Warning lamps for alternator charge, oil pressure, choke, main beam, handbrake application and brake failure. Bulb integrity sensor. Audible and optical warning for turn indicators. Glovebox light. Combined steering wheel and ignition lock. Centre console carries controls for electrically heated rear window and four-way hazard warning lamps. "Fasten seat belts" reminder. Heating and ventilation controls. Cigar lighter. Ashtray. Space is provided for a radio.
Other standard equipment.
Combined lever for turn indicators, main and dipped beam and main beam flasher. Combined stalk for two-speed windscreen wipers, and electric windscreen washer. Halogen headlights. Automatic day running lights. Automatic reversing lights. Head restraints on front seats. Inertia reel front seat belts. Two rear outer passengers have inertia reel belts, centre passenger has lap belt. Rear "fasten seat belts" reminder. "High-impact" laminated windscreen. Padded sun visors. Day/night rearview mirror of safety type. Roof lining of fibreglass pressure moulding. Child-proof rear door locks. Towing points front and rear. Mud flaps. The Volvo 244 GL has metallic paint.
Turning circle diameter.
Between kerbs: 32'2" (9.8 m).
Interior dimensions.
Boot capacity: 21.5 cu.ft./615 dm3. With SAE luggage: 14 cu. ft./395 dm
Weights.
Gross weight: 3925 Ib/1780 kg. Permissible trailer weight: 3307 Ib/1500 kg.
Warranty.
Twelve-month warranty including labour and parts, irrespective of mileage. The factory reserves the right to make changes at any time, without notice, to prices, colours, materials, equipment, specifications and models and also to discontinue models.
Nearly all car owners have their own individual requirements regarding special equipment. Some may want a tow bar for their caravan or boat trailer, and others, with small children, will be interested in a child safety seat. That is why Volvo has produced hundreds of different accessories to cater for greatly varying requirements. And all of these accessories have been designed and tested to suit Volvo cars.
Levelling System
Put your car back into the horizontal position when loaded down at the rear, for example when driving with a caravan or with a heavy load in the boot. This will eliminate the risk of dazzling oncoming traffic or letting the rear hit the ground when driving on bad roads.
Volvo Radio and Stereo Programme
There are several types of Volvo radios and Volvo radio/stereos to choose from. And each one of them has been specially produced to suit Volvo cars and developed in collaboration between Volvo sound technicians and leading radio manufacturers. All of these sets have a guarantee of 24 months.
Retractable Tow Bar
Can be retracted under the bumper when not in use. And then with a simple movement of the hand the tow bar is put back into operation again and locked with a pin.
| 244 DL | 244 GL | |
| Designation | B 21 A | B 21 E |
| Displacement cm3 | 2127 | 2127 |
| Bore x stroke mm | 92.0 x 80.0 | 92.0 x 80.0 |
| Max. output hp @ r/m DIN | 100 @ 5,250 | 123 @ 5,500 |
| Max. torque kpm @ r/m DIN | 17.3 @ 3,000 | 17.3 @ 3,500 |
| Max. torque Nm at r/s DIN | 170/50 | 170/58 |
| Carburation | Single, cross-draught carburetor | CI fuel injection |
| 244 DL | 244 GL | |
| Instruments | Clock | Clock, tachometer |
| Upholstery | Cloth | Leather-faced. Electrically heated driving seat |
| Height adjustment, driving seat | Yes | Yes |
| Carpeting | Fully carpeted. Short pile | Fully carpeted. Deep pile |
| Boot lighting! | - | Yes |
| Steering wheel diameter | 400 mm | 400 mm. Foam covered |
| Steering box ratio | 21.3:1 | 21.3:1 |
| Steering wheel turns, lock to lock | 4.3 | 4.3 |
| Steel braced radial ply tyres, dimensioned | 175 SR 14 | 185/70 SR 14 low profile |
| Rims | 5J-14 | 5.5J-14 |
| Stabiliser | Front and rear | Front and rear |
| Sunroof! | Optional | Standard |
