The 1980s were a banner decade for European coupes. Mercedes-Benz not only had the R107 SLC coupe, but also the tank that was the W126-generation 560 SEC. BMW built the 6-Series until 1989, even though it debuted in the '70s. Porsche models were the real stars, finally migrating to be within easier reach of the masses. And Volvo was no exception, following up the 262C with the 780 coupe.
Penned by Bertone, the 780 debuted in Geneva in 1985, offering clean Volvo design along with a spacious interior. The changes to the exterior profile were subtle — Bertone did not set out to reinvent the look of the 700 series — but every body panel was very different from the 740 cars of the time. The doors were longer, the roofline was lower and the windshield and A-pillars were a little more rakish compared to the sedan.
Bertone's calling card was arguably the C-pillar design, complete with a chrome strip and a slight kink, recalling a few of the carrozzeria's other efforts of the time. Squint at a Fiat X1/9 hard enough, and you can notice the similarities in the greenhouse proportions and the C-pillar. Or better yet, just picture the 780 as a targa, and what you will inevitably see is the Fiat X1/9, complete with the signature door shutlines.
The 780 landed in the U.S. as a 1987 model year car, and required a hefty premium over the 760 Turbo wagon, which until that time was the priciest version of the 700 series that you could buy. The B280F version of the PRV V6 was underhood, good for 145 hp and 173 lb-ft of torque and paired with a four-speed automatic.
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