By Chris Tropea
Apr 21, 2020
When looking for a car to compete in wheel-to-wheel racing, a Volvo isn't typically the first choice. For Zach Grant, however, he couldn't be happier with the 1970 Volvo 144 that fell into his lap. Presented by CRC Industries.
Like what you're reading? We rely on your financial support. For as little as $3, you can support Grassroots Motorsports by becoming a Patron today.
4/22/20 12:16 p.m.
Great article.Love seeing vintage tin tops racing.Might be vintage racing eligible?? Like the Swedish Motors Volvo Amazon that runs on the east coast.What I would like my 69 Cortina to be.
4/22/20 12:34 p.m.
In reply to sir_mike :
Totally unofficial but, yeah, I could see this one being vintage eligible.
4/22/20 12:46 p.m.
I have chosen a lighter one, a 122. But they need a cage and suspension especially steering and brakes to flog them on pavement.
Set back the motor and narrow a good rear axle.
A 144 might be a better choice, lighter than a 240 series? When did they start the crumple zone stuff? That is not good for racing.
4/22/20 12:51 p.m.
Whether the car is vintage racing eligible will depend on the series rules. The frotn air dam, for example, might not be allowed in some series.
4/22/20 1:30 p.m.
All I know is that car is super rad!
4/22/20 4:09 p.m.
That's cool. I had a friend run a 142 for a long time and it was just cool. Perfect break from the norm.
4/22/20 5:25 p.m.
A 140 is light years ahead of a 122 for road racing, unless you are going all GT3 on it.
4/22/20 5:34 p.m.
I'd really like to get in a B20/m40 car on track. I was working towards that before life changed. They're really revvy little OHV engines and the M40 is a very smooth and surprisingly fast shifting transmission.
4/22/20 8:13 p.m.
I've owned a 144 rally car and a 142E street car. Do not underestimate 140s; one of the fastest ITB cars in the country is a 142. The B20 motors are capable of 200hp and you can get a 140 down to 2300lbs. The cars can be made obscenely rapid.
4/22/20 8:19 p.m.
I raced ITB for a number of years. The Volvos were quicker than anything else, including my GTI. The local track record for the class has been held by a 142 for over 15 years. They are a fast car.
Displaying 1-10 of 13 commentsView all comments on the CMS forums
You'll need to Log in to post comments.