English
Lietuvių
Latviešu
Eesti
Polski
Русский
Українська
Deutsch
Nederlands
Čeština
Slovenčina
Svenska
Norsk
Dansk
Suomi
Volvo 780: Bertone coupe with V6 and turbo engines and what to know when buying
Volvo 780 — Bertone Turin-built luxury coupe, produced from 1986–1991 with around 8,500 units made. We explain what sets it apart, which engines to look for, and what to check if you come across one in the used market.
Volvo 780 in brief
The Volvo 780 was introduced at the 1985 Geneva Motor Show and marked Volvo's return to the coupe segment after the 262C was discontinued in 1981. The car was designed by Marc Deschamps and built by Bertone in Turin.
The hood, boot, and roofline are slightly lower than the 700 series sedan, while the C-pillar is wider and more slanted. In total, 8,518 units were produced, making the 780 a rare and collectible Volvo.
How it differs from the 760
Although the 780 shares its underpinnings with the 700 series, the body is entirely different: a two-door coupe with matte black window trim and chrome accents. The interior is more luxurious than in standard 700 series sedans.
Initially, from 1986–1987, a solid (non-independent) rear axle was used, and from August 1987, an independent rear suspension with self-leveling Nivomat shock absorbers and improved climate control. The 1991 model was simply called the "Volvo Coupé."
Engines and transmissions
Initially, the 780 came with a 2.8-litre V6 B280F engine producing around 150 hp, later a 2.3-litre turbo B230FT. After updates, the turbo engine's power reached around 175 hp, later up to 188 hp. In Italy, there were also 2.0-litre turbo variants, and by 1991, only the turbo version remained.
Manual or automatic transmission. The car weighs around 1.5 tonnes, so turbo versions are considered the better choice if you're after a more lively drive.
What to check when buying a Volvo 780
As with all classic cars, the bodywork is key: check for rust on the sills, arches, floor and boot floor. Bertone body parts and some interior details can be particularly hard to find.
Check the engine, turbo (if fitted), automatic gearbox, rear suspension and Nivomat dampers if fitted. Pay close attention to the service history – it's especially important with a rare car like this.
Trim levels
Trim names depend on the market and year; here we describe them by engine.
Turbo versija
From 1987The more lively 780 version with turbo engine and independent rear suspension.
- 2.3-litre turbo engine (around 175–188 hp)
- Independent rear suspension with Nivomat
- From 1987, improved climate control
Engine comparison
| V6 (B280F) | Turbo (B230FT) | |
|---|---|---|
| Engine | 2.8-litre V6, around 150 hp | 2.3-litre turbo, around 175–188 hp |
| Who it suits | For smoother driving | For more responsive handling |
| Weight | Around 1.5 tonnes | Around 1.5 tonnes |
| Price in the used market (relatively) | Mid-range | High-end |
For most buyers, the turbo version is the better choice due to its greater power, but the V6 is simpler and smoother.
Pros
- A rare collectible Volvo with a Bertone body
- A comfortable and spacious four-seater coupe
- The turbo version is more responsive than the V6
- A solid interior
Cons
- Very hard to find body and interior parts
- Risk of corrosion due to age
- High fuel consumption
Frequently asked questions
How many Volvo 780s were made?
According to official figures, 8,518 cars were produced between 1986 and 1991.
Who built the Volvo 780?
The car was assembled by Bertone in Turin, based on a design by Marc Deschamps.
Which Volvo 780 engine is better?
For many, the turbo engine is preferable due to its higher power, but the V6 is simpler. The key thing is the condition of the specific car and its service history.
Updated 2026-10-21 · Trim levels and equipment vary by market and model year — check the equipment of the specific car. · Translated automatically
