The R designation does not mean anymore what it used to mean.
Are you aware of ‘homologation” as regards cars?
For those of you who are not familiar: In sanctioned car racing, homologation is a testing and certification process for vehicles, circuits, and related equipment for conformance to technical standards, usually known as type approval in English-language jurisdictions. It confirms conformity to standards or categorization criteria typically set by the sporting authority. Internationally, the FIA and FIM mandate what must be homologated, the FIA in its International Sporting Code and appendices.
Over the years Volvo produced several homologated cars as part of its participation in rallye and road racing competitions. Notable were the Volvo 850 T-5R and 850 R homologations
- The Volvo 850 T-5R was a special limited-edition vehicle offered in 1995 and 1996, born from Volvo’s participation in the British Touring Car Championship (BTCC).
- The T-5R was based on the 850 Turbo but featured enhancements co-developed with Porsche, including engine tuning for increased power (240 hp / 243 hp depending on transmission) and transmission improvements. (I test drove one; it was insanely quick, sub-6 seconds 0 to 60)
- The T-5R also featured aerodynamic devices like a front spoiler and rear wing.
- The car’s participation in the BTCC required it to meet homologation regulations, which included producing a certain number of road-legal versions.
The R designation made it much easier for Volvo to identify its homologation versions to the public, especially enthusiasts, and they sold fairly well.
Prior to the 850R, Volvo had sold several homologations; here is a writeup on the ’83 240 homologation special: FIA Historic Database. And remember the Amazon? The 122W was the variant that could be optioned into the homologation version – see The Volvo Amazon is an Unexpected Classic Rally Car.
So, again, the thing that makes the “R” designation special for Volvo is that it used to clearly identify the homologation versions for sales to enthusiasts. Interestingly, there are only a few public roads in the world where you can drive these cars anywhere near their potential speed and handling The Autobahn comes to mind. My DS calls my S80 V8 a “BahnBurner.” Although, TBH, her wagon has the tires for and will do 130 mph… no way should anyone drive anywhere near that fast on public roads in the area where I live.
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Lately, Volvo have sold “R-Design” variants of their cars, which while not the homologations are in a way “refined” as @kyngofpop states.