Description
Large-format factory hardcover book produced by Volvo to launch the new Volvo 480 ES, with exceptional, documented provenance. This deluxe volume was issued by Volvo Car B.V. (Advertising, Sales & Product Promotion Department, Helmond, The Netherlands) in the mid-1980s as a coffee-table style introduction to the 480 ES rather than a standard thin brochure.
This copy comes directly from the estate of legendary Volvo owner Irv Gordon of Patchogue, NY, famous for driving his 1966 Volvo P1800 over three million miles and holding the Guinness World Record for highest mileage on a single-owner vehicle. On the front endpaper it bears a warm presentation inscription in blue ink:
“To Irv / With warmest compliments / Kevin Greenaway / June 1996.”
Kevin Greenaway is a long-time Volvo enthusiast and club representative, making this an appealing association copy linking two well-known names in the Volvo community. The book is written in English and runs 104 pages, approximately 12 x 12 inches, lavishly illustrated throughout with color photography, design drawings, and technical diagrams. Sections cover the 480 ES concept and styling, engineering and safety, comfort and convenience, and a comprehensive technical data and specifications section.
Key features
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Original Volvo 480 ES launch-era hardcover, c. mid-1980s, 104 pp
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Published by Volvo Car B.V., Advertising, Sales & Product Promotion Dept., Helmond, Netherlands
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From the estate of record-setting Volvo owner Irv Gordon
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Warmly inscribed and signed to Irv by Volvo enthusiast Kevin Greenaway, dated June 1996
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Large square format with extensive color photos, diagrams, and full technical specifications
Condition
Hardcover in very nice overall condition with light shelf and handling wear. Glossy pictorial boards show minor surface rubbing and a touch of corner wear consistent with gentle use. Binding remains tight and square. Interior pages are clean and bright, with no writing or marks other than the period presentation inscription shown. No dust jacket, as issued for this style of factory hardback.
Please review all photos carefully as they are part of the description and provide the best guide to condition and detail. This is a scarce, high-quality Volvo factory volume made particularly desirable by its direct connection to Irv Gordon and the dated inscription from Kevin Greenaway-an excellent piece for Volvo literature, 480 ES, or Irv Gordon collectors.
