in

Volvo PV 544 Special and a restoration for life

Volvo PV 544

In 1996, Harry Polling from Donderen completed the intensive restoration of his Volvo PV 544. A few years earlier, he had purchased the diligent Swede as a kit. That was the starting signal for the second life, that the Volvo still leads to today in Drenthe. And will lead for years. Because the revival of the Volvo took place to perfection.

Even the PV 444 and the Volvo PV 544 are in need of reconstruction. In the past, the traditionally rock-solid cars have often been used as a daily means of transport for years. Reliable up to and including, but even these cars have had a period when they were simply depreciated economically, and could also technically come to an end. Today, however, these models are still regularly visible in classic circles. And more importantly, they still provide an excellent basis for extending the service life.

Harry Polling thought this already in the eighties. He bought his second Katterug then - in 1987 -. This time a Volvo PV 544 Special of the fifth series came to Drenthe. Not as a rolling restoration object, but in parts. After thorough preparation, Polling rebuilt the Volvo to the last screw. His '64 Volvo also got a new - but historically correct - B18 A engine, a block that was slightly modified. The old Zenith carburettor was replaced by a Weber carburettor. According to Harry, the Tipo 341 CH is better and even more reliable than the Zenith model that Volvo originally united with the tame variant from Volvo's B18 engine.

Also interesting: More than sixty years strong: the Volvo Amazon

Thorough restoration

Harry really did everything with his Katterug. The car got a new paint job, and we already mentioned the donor engine. Other mechanics were also thoroughly examined, an alternator was fitted, donor fenders were adapted to Volvo PV 544 specifications, and rubbers were made to measure (and even more functional). than anyone had ever imagined in Sweden). And what was original and useful remained. A far-reaching degree of originality has been maintained inside and out. That authenticity was supplemented by Harry with things like a trip master and a tow bar.

Historical and contemporary craftsmanship

The Volvo became a Volvo again, and the Drenthe owner has been making regular journeys with it for more than two decades. We too were allowed to experience what historical and contemporary craftsmanship means. The Volvo PV 544 Special from Harry Polling fully regained its former glory. You can still feel that to this day. And that will be the case during the day of tomorrow and the day after tomorrow. During the ride that was made at the end of the report with the Volvo, it became clear how good the historical basis that Volvo provided for this type was. And to what extent that base returned during the restoration.

Very solid impression

The car is very solid, does not shrink and drives fantastic. And that feeling is reinforced by that strong power in the front. The pleasant hum goes together with that typical hoarse and breathable sound that evokes the Swedish power source construction. The interplay of the power source, the rigid carriage, the decidely working chassis, the operation of all vital things (clutch, steering, brakes) and the professional restoration, make this Volvo impress.

Restoration for life

And that impression is a big nod to the historical activities and reputation of the Swedish car manufacturer. She built cars for life. And for a second life. A qualification that still applies today to Harry Polling's Volvo PV 544 Special, who undertook a masterful restoration process, thus assessing the historical image of his car. And the car rightfully so Harry's Volvomay call.

DON'T MISS ANY ARTICLE AGAIN

REGISTER FOR FREE

AND WE SEND YOU OUR NEWSLETTER EVERY DAY WITH THE LATEST STORIES ABOUT CLASSIC CARS AND MOTORCYCLES

Select other newsletters if necessary

We won't send you spam! Read us privacy Policy .

3 Comments

Leave a Reply

Give a reaction

The email address will not be published. Required fields are marked with *

The maximum upload file size: 8 MB. you can upload: image. Links to YouTube, Facebook, Twitter and other services inserted in the comment text will be automatically embedded. Drop files here




Now on newsstands

View the nearly forty-page preview at this link or a click on the cover.

The December issue, containing:

  • Alfa Romeo Giulia 1300 Super
    Erik van Putten explores the timeless charm of the Alfa Romeo Giulia 1300 Super, with images of Bart Spijker and himself. The story delves into the world of Alfaenthusiast Koen de Groot, whose family is deeply rooted in the Alfa Romeo culture. Koens' special relationship with his Giulia, a car he has cherished for years and which will soon receive an impressive upgrade, is highlighted. The Giulia symbolizes car love and heritage, a passion enriched by Koen's father Frans, a Alfa Romeo expert and enthusiast.
  • Double Used Type Designations
    Peter Ecury unravels fascinating stories from the automotive world in the 32nd episode of his series on double-used type designations. This edition provides an update on the rumors surrounding Peugeot and Porsche and delves into the history of the type designation '142', used by brands such as Volvo and Austin. Ecury also discusses the evolution of the term 'GT' and the controversial use of the letters 'SS' in car names after WWII, with examples such as the Chevrolet Impala SS and the Alfa Romeo Giulietta SS.
  • Ducati 750GT, 860GT and 900GTS
    Hans Smid highlights the Ducati round carts, produced from 1972 to 1974, which combine minimalist beauty with unique technology. This article describes Ducati's drive for innovation and the creation of these models, highlights the challenges and costs of collecting them, and shows Ducati's journey from near ruin to iconic status.
  • Horex Imperator
    Marina Block tells the story of the Horex Imperator, an iconic motorcycle from the 50s, known for its sportiness and advanced technology. Despite the closure of the factories, Horex remained known, partly due to the cartoon character Werner and recent reissues. The Imperator, with its innovative parallel twin and overhead camshaft, inspired later designs and has been praised for its quality and design, despite limited sales success.
  • ClassicPost
    Readers of Auto Motor Klassiek share their discoveries and experiences. Eddy Joustra discovers a Peugeot 203 pickup in Heerenveen, while Robert Reessink photographs a unique Moto Guzzi moped in Italy. Stories range from Chris van Haarlem's Scottish scooter adventures to Bram Drooger's discovery of a Rolls-Royce Corniche and two FIAT 850s. Ben de Man finds a special Chevrolet Step-Van in the Netherlands, and readers share corrections and additions to previously published articles.
  • Nissan Silvia 1.8 Turbo
    Aart van der Haagen reveals the history of a rare Nissan Silvia 1.8 Turbo, originally registered as a commercial vehicle. The first owner transformed the car into a family-friendly vehicle, and Jan Manenschijn now cherishes this unrestored gem with only 67.000 kilometers on the odometer.
  • Peugeot 205 collection Team VCC Twente
    Aart van der Haagen highlights Team VCC Twente's collecting passion for Peugeot 205 models. Brothers Peter and Niek Olde Veldhuis collected unique examples such as the GTI and CTI, and even a rare 1.9 GTI Dimma. Their collection shows the transformation of a once ordinary model into a special classic.
  • Volvo and Classic Cars
    Alain Pondman from Volvo Lotte speaks about the true value of classic cars. He criticizes the trend of cheap, poorly maintained classics on Marktplaats, emphasizes the importance of making memories with vintage cars, and advises buyers to invest in quality and durability.
  • Volkswagen Beetle 1955 - Second life
    Max de Krijger tells the story of Hendrik Jan Hofman, a passionate Kever restorer. Hofman brought a badly damaged 1955 Beetle back to life with a dedication to perfection and detail. This green Beetle, complete with handmade high chair and open roof, reflects his craftsmanship. Hofman is now considering selling the Beetle to focus on a new project.
  • ClassicPost
    In the KlassiekerPost section of Auto Motor Klassiek enthusiastic readers share their unique finds and personal experiences. Eddy Joustra comes across a rare Peugeot 203 pickup in Heerenveen. Robert Reessink captures a unique Moto Guzzi moped on camera in Italy. Chris van Haarlem shares his Scottish scooter adventures, including an unexpected encounter with an Austin A30 on the Isle of Skye. Bram Drooger spots an elegant Rolls-Royce Corniche and two FIAT 850s. Ben de Man discovers a special Chevrolet Step-Van in the Netherlands. This section illustrates the diversity and deep-rooted passion of classic car and motorcycle enthusiasts, with stories ranging from local discoveries to international treasures. In addition, readers provide valuable corrections and additions to previously published articles, such as PBTM Matthijssen's input on the Ardie/Dürkopp Dianette, which contributes to the rich and versatile content of the magazine.
  • Once again almost twenty pages of short messages about everything that has to do with classics
  • And of course our section 'Classics' where you can shop around in search of your next classic.

The perfect reading material for an evening or more of undisturbed dreaming. It is now in stores. A subscription is of course better, because then you will no longer miss a number and you are also much cheaper. Not bad in these expensive times.

Harley-Davidson Aermacchi

Harley-Davidson Aermacchi

Citroën Visa DÃ © capotable

Citroën Visa DÃ © capotable