In 1981, Volvo introduced a turbo engine in its family-friendly 240 sedan and wagon. The 240 Turbo delivered 154 horsepower, accelerating to 100 km/h in under nine seconds, making it the fastest wagon of its time. A year later, the FIA adjusted regulations for touring cars, which allowed Volvo’s 240 Turbo to perfectly fit into Group A. Volvo then developed a high-performance version for motorsports, approved in 1983.

In 1984, the 240 Turbo made its DTM debut, with Swedish driver Per Stureson winning the first race in Mainz-Finthen. Volvo continued its commitment in 1985, dominating the ETCC and securing the European championship title for the Volvo Dealer Team Europe. In the DTM, Stureson earned victories and the driver’s title with the “Flying Brick,” showcasing advanced technical features like a quick refueling system and a heavily modified engine.

In 1986, however, Volvo faced a setback: the ETCC championship title was revoked due to rule violations, leading to the end of Volvo’s official motorsport involvement.