Nothing spruces up the timeless stodginess of a Volvo 142 like an army of rally lights hanging off of the front bumper. The 142S was the base model of the 140-160 series and for decades it’s served as a reliable and flexible platform for rally, race and street performance projects. This design is aging well and today you’ll still find them in the grids at stage rallys and hanging out near the front of the pack at SCCA ITB races. We came across this 1972 Volvo 142S for sale on Hemmings.com and were drawn to the lighting and wheel upgrades and had to learn more. According to the seller:
2 litre. 4spd + O.D., suspension, brakes, motor rebuilt and upgraded. Suspension has upgraded bushings, springs, shocks, sway bars. Brakes has ss brake lines, vented discs, and entire 164 brake system. Motor was built by Vintage Performance developments, (check their site for details) to the SP2 package including balancing, apr studs, cam, fuel injected ported big valve head, dual valve springs, header, twin mikuni carbs, lightened cam gear, etc. … I just took it to the Sports and Exotic show in Saratoga 300 miles round trip 25 mpg
All the goodies you’d want in a tastefully modified street performance 142. The Mikuni carb conversion stands out as an interesting modification. These are slide carburetors borrowed from motorcycle applications that are valued for their simplicity and modern design. We’re starting to see more use of these in street cars, typically to replace aging SU or Stromberg carburetors. The stated mileage figure is quite an achievement considering the level of modification done to the engine and says something about the owner’s commitment to detail. Anyone have experience with Mikuni conversions?
See more Volvos for sale on Hemmings.com.