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2 April 2019

Remember when Volvo made nature-conquering military vehicles?

By Mitchell TulkMitchell Tulk

Volvo is well remembered for building boxy sedans during the ‘80s and ‘90s, while nowadays it’s better known for its luxury SUVs. 

But who remembers when Volvo was making military vehicles like the amphibious Bandvagn 202?

Built by the brand’s subsidiary, Bloinder-Munktell, the Bandvagn was used in the Swedish military, before acting as a supply transporter in Poland and this '78 example is currently for sale on Bring a Trailer in Cleveland, USA.

Like an armoured tractor with treads and finished in camo paint, it’s fitted with a rear unit that can carry up to 10 people, so friends can join your adventures to conquer nature.

  • No one will mess with you in this. (image credit: Bring a Trailer) No one will mess with you in this. (image credit: Bring a Trailer)
  • I can't see anything. (image credit: Bring a Trailer) I can't see anything. (image credit: Bring a Trailer)
  • Dual carbs for that extra power. (image credit: Bring a Trailer) Dual carbs for that extra power. (image credit: Bring a Trailer)
  • I can only imagine how heavy the clutch and gear shift feels. (image credit: Bring a Trailer) I can only imagine how heavy the clutch and gear shift feels. (image credit: Bring a Trailer)
  • Passenger comfort doesn't exist here. (image credit: Bring a Trailer) Passenger comfort doesn't exist here. (image credit: Bring a Trailer)

Powering this monster is Volvo’s B20B four-cylinder engine, which made a modest 88kW.

In a vehicle that weighs the same as a tank, it’s probably slower than walking.

If this isn’t your cup of Punsch, then also for sale is a civilian version of the '79 Volvo C202 Laplander 4x4.

  • This is a bit more civilised. (image credit: Bring a Trailer) This is a bit more civilised. (image credit: Bring a Trailer)
  • The rear canopy is removable, how cool is that? (image credit: Bring a Trailer) The rear canopy is removable, how cool is that? (image credit: Bring a Trailer)
  • The interior looks brand new! (image credit: Bring a Trailer) The interior looks brand new! (image credit: Bring a Trailer)
  • This looks more passenger friendly. (image credit: Bring a Trailer) This looks more passenger friendly. (image credit: Bring a Trailer)
  • Only 61kW? You gotta pump those numbers up, those are rookie numbers! (image credit: Bring a Trailer) Only 61kW? You gotta pump those numbers up, those are rookie numbers! (image credit: Bring a Trailer)

Located in North Carolina, this van comes with 16-inch steel wheels wrapped in All-Terrain tyres, a snorkel, a removable hardtop and rear troop-style seats for six passengers.

Using a 61kW version of the 2.0-litre engine, the Laplander can apparently reach 115km/h, but it's more suited to off-road roaming than drag racing.

Bidding ends this Friday for the Laplander, while the Bandvagen wraps up on Saturday.

Would you take these Volvo bush-bashing? Let us know in the comments.