The Volvo ÖV 4 was the first car produced by Swedish automaker Volvo. The name ÖV 4 stands for the Swedish abbreviation “Öppen Vagn 4 cylindrar” which means Open Carriage, 4 cylinders. The model ÖV 4 was often nicknamed “Jakob”. Clcompany is delighted to feature the facts about the 1927’s Classic Volvo ÖV4.
Flashback
The first series-produced Volvo car left the Lundby factory on April 14th, 1927. ÖV4 was the Volvo’s name for this open car with 4 cylinders. When the first series was produced ÖV4 was about to leave the factory and engineer Eric Carlberg put it into first gear, the car actually went backward because it was in reverse gear. The explanation was that the differential gear in the rear axle had been installed improperly. This error caused the launch to be delayed by one day and the official launch day for the ÖV4 was then shifted to 14 April 1927, the day the automobile company Volvo was “born”— this is from a marketing perspective. The OV4 was a breakthrough for the company and played a significant role in establishing the brand as a reliable and safe car manufacturer.
Years in production – 1927 to 1029
The Design
The OV4 was designed to be a sturdy and reliable car for Swedish roads. The engine was designed by Gustav Larson, and Jan G. Smith created the bulk of the chassis parts. One of the most notable features of the OV4 was its sturdy construction. The car was built on a ladder frame and had a robust suspension system, which made it suitable for the rough Swedish terrain. The car also had a simple and reliable design, which made it easy to maintain and repair. The body was made on an ash and beech frame and wrapped in sheet metal. The car was only available in one color combination, dark blue with black wings. Despite its simple design and modest specifications, the OV4 was a popular car in Sweden and helped establish Volvo as a reputable car manufacturer.
Top Specifications of Volvo ÖV4
- Displacement – 1944 cc
- Power – 29 hp @ 2000 rpm.
- Torque – 100 Nm
- Transmission – 3-speed manual
- Top speed – 90 km/h
- Kerb weight– 1,170 kg
- Wheelbase– 112 inches
Interesting facts
- The car was produced until 1929, with a total of 996 units built.
- The OV4 cabriolet was not very successful in the Swedish climate; the covered version, PV 4, was launched in the summer of 1927.
- Today, the OV4 is a rare and highly sought-after collector’s item, with some examples selling for hundreds of thousands of dollars at auction.
Fascinated by old Stars. You have reached your destination. At CLcompany we have curated pictures, write-ups, and more about the legendary journey of Cars. If you are looking to share your thoughts on Classic Cars, do check out writer’s section on CLcompany website.
Share the passion with the world.