Exploring the History of Junkyard Volvo Station Wagons
During my explorations of junkyard history, I’ve written about discarded Volvo station wagons going back to the middle 1960s. The final Göteborg wagons with brick shapes and rear-wheel-drive were sold in the United States as 1998 models, but the new century brought us plenty of curvy front- and all-wheel-drive longroof Volvos, many of which have been built with manual transmissions. Here’s one of those cars: a 2006 V50 T5 AWD with six-on-the-floor manual gearbox, found in a Denver-area car graveyard.
The Introduction of the V50
The V50 was the wagon version of the S40 sedan. Sales in the United States began with the 2005 model, and it was discontinued after 2011.
Performance Specs and Transmission
The base 2006 V50 had a naturally-aspirated 2.4-liter straight-five engine, but this car is a T5 and has the turbocharged 2.5 version with 218 horses and 236 pound-feet. A six-speed manual was the base transmission, but most American V50 buyers opted for the five-speed automatic.
Unique Features of this V50
However, this particular V50 is equipped with the six-speed manual transmission, making it a rare find in the United States. This feature makes it especially enjoyable to drive in snowy conditions, providing a more engaging driving experience for enthusiasts.
Mechanical Condition and Interior
Despite some body damage, the interior of this V50 is in good shape, indicating that it was well-maintained prior to ending up in the junkyard. It is likely that a costly mechanical issue led to its disposal at the junkyard, where it now awaits its fate.
Personalized Touches
Like many other cars in the Denver area, this V50 is adorned with Colorado brewery stickers, showcasing the owner’s affinity for local craft beer. Additionally, it features pit bull stickers, adding a personalized touch to the exterior of the vehicle.
In conclusion, the discovery of this 2006 V50 T5 AWD with a manual transmission in a Denver junkyard offers a glimpse into the history and evolution of Volvo station wagons in the United States. Despite its current state, this car represents a unique find for enthusiasts and serves as a reminder of the diverse range of vehicles that have graced American roads over the years.