FYI: Allen has been delighting us with stellar reviews from recent Scandinavian car events, including Gateville’s Summer Festival in Sweden and the Main Event in Norway.
A Retrospective Look at a Classic Gatebil Volvo with a V10 Heart
Over the past few months, Allen has been bringing us captivating reviews of two of the biggest events in the Scandinavian car enthusiast scene: Gateville’s Summer Festival at Mantorp Park in Sweden and the Main Event at Rudskogen Motor Centre in Norway. These events will drive some fantastic car features in the coming weeks, but for now, let’s take a nostalgic trip back a decade and revisit a remarkable Gatebil Volvo that Dino captured on camera in 2014.
The 2014 Special: A Volvo Like No Other
Dino’s affinity for unusual cars is well known. He is drawn to vehicles that stand out due to their design, innovation, or simply their quirky appeal. Volvo, as a manufacturer, has traditionally focused on functionality and safety over beauty, a philosophy apparent in their boxy, robust designs of the ’80s.
However, every now and again, Volvo’s design team would break the mold, creating models like the 242 Coupe. Although retaining the brand’s signature boxy essence, the 242 Coupe possessed an inexplicable charm, especially when compared to vehicles like the 262C Bertone Coupe.
Fast forward to 2014 and at the Gatebil event at Rudskogen, Dino stumbled upon an unexpected gem—an immaculately kept 242 Coupe. Unlike the typically rugged drift and grip cars populating the event, this Volvo stood out for its pristine condition.
Under the Hood: The Heart of a BMW V10
Upon closer inspection, it became clear why this Volvo demanded attention. Inside, roll-cage piping and other race-ready modifications hinted at a deeper story. When owner Jesper Andersson opened the carbon bonnet, the expected Volvo or Toyota engine was nowhere to be found. Instead, nestled within was the formidable 5.0L V10 from a BMW E60 M5—a true testament to Scandinavian engineering prowess.
Jesper’s journey with this V10 powerhouse began when he salvaged the engine from a wrecked M5. Initially meant for a different project, fate intervened, leading to its home in the 242 Coupe. The process involved meticulous planning and extensive modifications, ensuring the chassis could handle the engine’s 500 horsepower capability.
Comprehensive Modifications
The significant build effort extended beyond just the engine. Jesper collaborated with Sellholm Tuning to create custom front suspension turrets, integrating fully adjustable camber/caster plates. After disassembling the car and painting it in Audi Daytona Silver, the V10 was mounted with all the necessary clearances and components correctly aligned.
The exterior of the vehicle retained a near-stock appearance, save for the centrally mounted dual exhaust outlets—a subtle yet meaningful alteration. Elsewhere, Porsche GT3 front brakes and BMW rear calipers dramatically improved the vehicle’s stopping power.
Inside, the bare essentials were preserved, with a minimalist approach ensuring the focus stayed on driver performance. The inclusion of Sparco fixed-back bucket seats, TAKATA racing harnesses, and a dashboard featuring a Racetech LCD data logger highlighted this intent.
Attention to Detail
The meticulous attention to detail extended to the weight-saving Lexan windows and the repositioned rear suspension turrets. The fuel infrastructure was designed for high performance, with a racing fuel tank, braided fuel lines, and a Bosch external pump, all neatly organized in the trunk.
Conclusion
Reflecting on the creative and labor-intensive process behind creating such automotive masterpieces, it’s clear that Scandinavian car culture continues to push boundaries. This Volvo 242 Coupe with a BMW V10 heart epitomizes the innovative spirit and engineering excellence that define Gatebil events.
Stay tuned to Automotive.fyi for more updates from the Scandinavian car scene.
Donald Smith, Editor of Automotive.fyi
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