FYI: Kalle Larsson’s remarkable journey with his late grandfather’s 1987 Volvo 740 GL showcases the unbreakable bond between family, memories, and a shared passion for automotive culture.
Restoring Memories: Kalle Larsson’s Heartwarming Volvo 740 GL Journey
For automotive enthusiasts, cars often transcend mere objects and become cherished family members. This sentiment rings especially true for 29-year-old Kalle Larsson, an automotive engineer with a deep affinity for Volvo vehicles. Among the more than 20 vehicles from the Swedish automaker he owns, no car holds a more special place in his heart than the 1987 Volvo 740 GL that once belonged to his late grandfather, Stig Larsson.
A Family Legacy on Wheels
Kalle’s earliest memory of this particular Volvo dates back to when his grandparents would pick him up from nursery school. After his grandfather’s passing when Kalle was just five, the 740 GL became a rotating member of the family, a testament to its enduring resilience and significance.
The Decision to Restore
Kalle’s dream of reclaiming and restoring his grandfather’s Volvo began at a young age. On obtaining his driver’s license, he eagerly accepted when a family member offered him the car. Despite being driven daily over the years, the Volvo remained in surprisingly good condition, allowing Kalle to focus on rejuvenating its exterior.
Transformation and Upgrades
Kalle’s restoration efforts were nothing short of transformative. He tackled a front-end conversion on a USDM Volvo, incorporating Volvo add-on bumpers, Maxton side skirts, a Volvo turbo grille, and 760 taillights. Enhancement efforts also featured a ducktail spoiler, luxurious black trim from the 740 GLE, and a repaint in Volvo 600-3 "Grabeige."
A Heartbreaking Theft and Community Support
Tragically, in 2023, Kalle’s lovingly restored Volvo was stolen. However, the Swedish Stans community quickly rallied, leading to the car’s recovery. Though many parts had been stripped, the thieves had left behind the prized upgraded BBS RS wheels.
A Thoughtful Rebuild
The recovery was only the beginning of another phase of meticulous restoration. Kalle reinstated the stolen Air Lift Performance 3P air suspension and injected new life into the chassis with an array of refurbishments, including J-Spec front shock absorbers and Bilstein shocks at the rear.
Interior Renaissance
Restoring the interior proved challenging, especially after losing the Nardi steering wheel, steering column components, and the center console. With immense help from the automotive community, Kalle sourced second-hand parts to bring the interior back to its former glory.
Revitalizing the Engine Bay
Remarkably, the engine remained untouched. Kalle amplified the Volvo’s original B230F engine by fitting the 740 Turbo’s "531" cylinder head, complete with larger ports, improved flow, and a VX3 camshaft. He ensured all other components were refurbished and neatly tucked away for a pristine engine bay presentation.
Conclusion
Kalle Larsson’s 10-year journey with his grandfather’s 1987 Volvo 740 GL has been a remarkable blend of challenges and triumphs. Today, thanks to his unwavering dedication and the support of a passionate community, Kalle proudly cruises the streets of Sweden in a car infused with countless cherished memories.
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Donald Smith, Editor of Automotive.fyi
