In 1977 Volvo introduced the 262C, the Swedish company’s first venture into the upscale luxury automobile segment. Based on the 264 platform, the 262C was equipped with a new V-6 engine jointly developed with Peugeot and Renault, and featured special coachwork designed in-house and built by Italian carrozzeria Bertone.

A raked windshield leading to a lowered roofline gave the stylish appearance of a “chopped” Volvo, while a long list of standard equipment ensured a luxurious experience, including power amenities, air conditioning, cruise control, elm veneer door trim, and heated seats upholstered in pleated Connolly leather. Defined as a low-volume “halo” product, the 262C was the ultimate combination of Nordic engineering and Italian style, and it continues to be esteemed by marque enthusiasts today.

Benefitting from the dutiful care of just two owners during its lifetime, this late-production 262C is a particularly desirable example. Chassis number 008984 was sold new in August 1981 by Autosport of Somerville, New Jersey to the company Union Resources and Technology of Whitehouse, New Jersey. The purchase was made on behalf of the company’s principal, Dr. Kang-Jen “Fred” Liu, a chemist who specialized in plastics manufacture.

As reflected by service invoices, handwritten notes, and a driver’s log on file, Dr. Liu diligently maintained the Volvo for many years. In September 1995 he replaced the temperamental French V-6 with a more traditional Volvo engine, the highly durable B21F inline four-cylinder, which vastly improves mechanical reliability.

Following his passing in 2000, Dr. Liu’s widow stored the Volvo for the next 13 years. It was eventually spotted by Dennis Nash, a knowledgeable marque enthusiast who had worked for a Volvo dealership for over 30 years. After repeated entreaties and visits by Mr. Nash and his wife Ann Marie, both enthusiasts immersed in the British vintage touring car niche, Mrs. Liu finally sold the 262C to the couple in 2013, and it has remained with the Nash estate ever since.

Benefitting from the consistent care of just two owners throughout its life, this stylish Italian-built sedan is a remarkable example of Volvo’s initial foray into the luxury car market. It would make a tasteful addition to any Volvo gathering or collection of Scandinavian boutique models.