Scandinavian Design will to a trademark in those time. This also applies to many other things, for example for furniture. From the DAF predecessor, only slightly changed is nothing left, front-wheel drive instead of variomatic rear. Only the engine supplier Renault is retained. A turbocharger provides for the required performance at the sportier models. In this class, 200 km/h been not yet very often achieved.
At the same time the 440 acts as a protector, first in the advertisement and then called also of the factory 'Bodyguard'. A whole package of measures are to ensure, the are not self-evident even at this time:
Integrated roll-over bar
Reinforcements in the doors
Seatbelt height adjustment
New type of belt tensioners
Airbag
ABS
Unconventional, edged design, designed so that it fits the rest of the Volvo offer. Thus, of course the advertising also appeals to the desire to experiment of potential customers. But the car still offers other qualities. The inspection works are drastically reduced, thereby lowers the maintenance costs in addition to the longevity said of Volvo. 10/13