Volvo F10
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1977 saw the arrival of Volvo’s F10 and F12 in the UK. Following on from the iconic F88 and F89, Volvo used this pair to bring drivers a true step change in comfort and safety levels.
The first impressions of that luxurious velour interior continued through the spiral spring suspended cab to the straight-six 10-litre motor. The F10 was designed around the driver and was a world away from Leyland’s Marathon – a contemporary.
Volvo’s TD100 engine and SR62 four-over-four 16-speed box, with dash-mounted splitter, felt like one unit. With upgrades, it lasted until the FH took over in 1994, leaving behind a reputation only marred by early rust issues that produced some frilly-bottomed cabs.
Truck of the Year in 1977? It was the Seddon Atki 200.
The F10 finally got recognised in 1984, with seven years of changing drivers lives behind it.
Ian Norwell (freelance journalist)