Volvo, PV444/544 Little Known Facts
The PV44 was designed by Jan Wilsgård: The original designer of the PV-series was not Bo R. Gustafsson as often credited, but actually Jan Wilsgård.
PV544 production lasted 19 years: Despite being discontinued in 1965, there were still leftover parts and chassis from 1963 used to make additional cars until 1966.
Volvo PV-series engines: Most models of the PV44 and PV54 have a single SU carburetor on their B16/B18/B20 engines. However, some versions (such as certain early model P444) had dual Solex/47PIS and SU 1-2 carbs instead.
PV544 transmission was designed by David Mudd: The 3-speed manual transmission used in the PV44 and PV54 series was created by Volvo's British design partner, David Mudd.
PV-series axles were strengthened for high speeds: Volvo engineers reinforced the rear axles of the PV44 and PV54 to be stronger at high speeds (over 100 mph).
Volvo PVS engines used in some PV544s had a special camshaft: While the B16 and B18/B20 units generally shared the same camshaft profiles, certain later engine variants got a higher-lift and longer-duration cam for added performance.
PV-series was tested on long-distance tours across Europe and Africa by Volvo engineers: In an effort to assess the robustness of their cars under prolonged driving conditions, Volvo engineers conducted several transcontinental trips between 1953 and 1955 in PV44 and PV54 models.
Many PV544s were converted into racing cars: The PV-series' potential for performance led some enthusiasts to convert them for racing; many of these have been preserved in museums and collections today.
Some PV544s featured an optional 'high-speed' gearset, with close-ratio second through fourth gears: This gearing setup was meant to improve acceleration from low engine speeds (i.e., when the engine was most powerful).
PV-series cars sometimes featured special 'long-distance' dashboard instruments and a larger fuel tank for long-distance touring.
In some PV544s, especially those with rear window vents, interior trim included an integrated map pocket with a ruler scale printed on it, which doubled as an ashtray.
A small number of PV44s had an early, experimental dashboard design with gauges mounted in a circular pattern around the steering column; later models went back to traditional dashboards.
PV544s used in Arctic testing by Volvo engineers were given specialized gearboxes and axles designed to keep them running smoothly at sub-zero temperatures.
Some PV44s featured larger 15-inch wheels (the first time Volvo fitted anything other than 14 inches) for their 'high-speed' variants, while others had the standard 14x5 or optional 14x6 steel rims.
PV-series cars were sold with a range of options and accessories including luggage racks, roof carriers, sun visors, and even some PV44 models could have been fitted with a unique rear-mounted luggage compartment (designed for safari adventures).
The PV544's chassis was made up of 25 different steel parts which when combined formed the complete underpinning.
Volvo designed a specialized gear linkage system, often dubbed as an "overhung" setup where the linkages were mounted on the outside of the transmission bellhousing to improve stability and reduce wear, especially during long-distance driving.
Some PV-series models used in experimental work for testing advanced transmission technologies included prototypes featuring forward gears with 'close-ratio' gearing.
PV544s have been modified by enthusiasts into motorhomes: The spacious interior of the PV44 and PV54 has inspired owners to convert them into camper vans, sometimes adding large roof extensions or other custom components.
Only 68 left-hand drive 544 models were exported from Sweden in a short period from June 1957 until August 1958.
PV-series engines produced between 47 and 80 horsepower depending on the model year, camshaft profile, and specific engine variant used.
In certain PV44s, especially those designed for off-road use or expeditions, Volvo engineers mounted a 'beefed up' front axle with stronger universal joints to enhance durability in demanding conditions.
PV544s had an optional rear window vent: In hot climates, some owners opted for an additional rear vent which was said to improve airflow and reduce heat buildup inside the vehicle.
The PV-series chassis has a very specific design philosophy that included no differential gear; instead it featured specially-designed 'splines' between the driven wheels on each side to distribute torque evenly during cornering.
PV544 models from the late 1950s and early 1960s sometimes had chrome-plated exhaust pipes for improved durability in harsh environments.
PV44s (and some PV54) featured a 'side-sill' reinforcement running along each side of the chassis just below the floorpan, intended to provide added strength against impacts from both sides.
PV-series models used for experimental purposes also included engine modifications that incorporated features like larger intake valves and dual SU carburetors.
A limited number of PV44s featured early 3-speed gearboxes with a unique 'synchromesh' system, designed to improve shifting smoothness; these were dropped in favor of the David Mudd-designed three-speed manual used across most models.
Some owners and enthusiasts chose to install rear seats, often with optional upholstery and trim matching that found inside other parts of the PV-series body.
PV44 models built from 1958 onwards featured a more modern-style dashboard panel with improved ergonomics and visibility compared to earlier designs; this design change was aimed at providing easier access for various gauges and knobs, especially those used for navigation.