The Volvo 240 and 260 Series was introduced in the autumn of 1974, and was initially available as six variations of the 240 Series (242L, 242DL, 244DL, 244GL, 245L and 245DL) and two variations of the 260 Series (264DL and 264GL).
The 264 models had a completely new V6 B27E engine. This engine (which was called the Douvrin engine) was developed jointly by Peugeot, Renault and Volvo (hence the nickname "PRV"). The B27E engine had a capacity of 2664cc, and which was fitted with an aluminium alloy block and wet cylinder liners. This engine produced 140bhp for both the 264DL and 264GL. All models were available with a choice between 4-speed manual gearbox, with a 3-speed automatic gearbox being available as an option on all models. Overdrive was also optional on the manual 244GL, while a 5-speed manual gearbox was optional on the 264GL.