Volvo PV444/544 - PV444

The PV444 was Volvo's first uni-body car. It was also the first Volvo in almost 20 years to come with a 4-cylinder engine. The first PV444s were powered by a 40 hp 1.4 L inline-4 engine designated the B4B, with three main bearings, overhead valves, and a single downdraft carburettor. Late in 1955, an uprated version called the B14A was given twin side-draught 1½ in SU carburettors.

By the 1957 model year, engine displacement was increased to 1.6 L and both single downdraft- B16A and twin side-draught-carburetted B16B versions were offered. Fuel economy was quite above average and performance particularly with the twin carburetor configuration was brisk. The combination of performance and durability won over many two-seat sports car drivers, allowing them a pleasurable drive in the entire family's company if desired.