Volvo 300 Series Overview: Generations, Specs and Which One to Buy
The Volvo 300 Series is a rear-wheel-drive sedan built from 1975 to 1991 with outputs from 54 to 116 hp. This overview covers its single generation, 57 modifications and the standout versions worth buying.
The Volvo 300 Series is a compact rear-wheel-drive sedan produced from 1975 to 1991 with engine outputs ranging from 54 to 116 hp. It suits drivers who want a simple, classic Volvo with manual or CVT transmission and modest power — an entry point into the brand rather than a performance car.
Volvo 300 Series generations
1 generation (1975–1991)
The first and only generation of the Volvo 300 Series was built from 1975 to 1991 exclusively as a sedan, with rear-wheel drive across the entire range. Power outputs span from 54 hp to 116 hp, and buyers could choose between a Manual gearbox and a CVT — an unusual pairing for its era. In total, the lineup counts 57 modifications, giving the 300 Series one of the widest engine and trim spreads in its class for a single-generation model.
Among the notable versions, the Volvo 300 Series 1.4 MT (71 hp) with a 1400 cc engine was the mass-market choice of the range. At the top sits the Volvo 300 Series 2.0 MT (116 hp) with a 1986 cc engine, which accelerates to 100 km/h in 10.5 seconds. The range also includes the Volvo 300 Series 1.6 MT (55 hp), a diesel with a 1596 cc engine that reaches 100 km/h in 20.0 seconds.
Which Volvo 300 Series to buy
- 2.0 MT (116 hp) (1 generation): the most powerful version of the range, with 116 hp from its 1986 cc engine and 0–100 km/h in 10.5 seconds — the pick for drivers who want the strongest performance a 300 Series offers.
- 1.4 MT (71 hp) (1 generation): the mass-market version with 71 hp and a 1400 cc engine — the most common configuration, which makes finding one on the used market easier.
- 1.6 MT (55 hp) (1 generation): the diesel option with 55 hp and a 1596 cc engine; its 20.0-second run to 100 km/h makes it the choice for unhurried driving rather than pace.
Every Volvo 300 Series on sale today dates from 1975–1991, so age is the main factor when buying used: condition varies far more between individual cars than between versions. The single-generation, rear-wheel-drive layout with mostly manual gearboxes keeps the mechanical package straightforward, which works in favor of cars that have been maintained.
Which Volvo 300 Series to avoid
The Volvo 300 Series 1.6 MT (55 hp) is dominated on paper by the petrol versions: despite its larger 1596 cc engine, it produces only 55 hp — less than the 71 hp of the smaller 1400 cc 1.4 MT — and needs 20.0 seconds to reach 100 km/h versus 10.5 seconds for the 2.0 MT (116 hp). Choose it only if the diesel engine specifically matters to you.