'71-72 Headlight surrounds
 

After looking through quite a few photos (and seeing a few in person), I've become confused by the colouration of the headlight surrounds on '71-72 140's.

Some (most, it would seem) have black around the headlights. But others are chrome/silver. My understanding was that chrome came with the GL's and E's (Upper end), but I've seen some DL's and 'base' models with them too. Moreover, I've also seen GL's and E's with the black surrounds.

That said, does anyone know what, if any, kind of system Volvo had for this?

More correct:

'71 yearmodels where fitted with a new 3-piece grill - black painted with unpainted surround:

http://www.140-klubben.org/trbild/sv...0/PICT0690.JPG

- but still if a "basic" model where ordered, (not exported to the US - Basic's where often 145's sold as van's and similar) - they where fitted with the one-piece grill:

http://www.140-klubben.org/trbild/vrom07/PICT7787.JPG

Note: The pictures shown, ONLY serve as pictures of the grill-type - the cars are not exact '71 or '72 yearmodels.

Aaah, I understand this already. Sorry, I should have been more clear.

I meant the '71-72 3-piece models only. I know about the "Basic" models, but I put that in quotation marks as I've seen some of those that have the 3-piece grille, but minimal equipment. The more in line with the U.S Basic model, I suppose.

Now, what I mean by chrome/Silver surrounds are these:

http://www.flickr.com/photos/sven_designs/3733440369

Compared to the ones in your post, these are silver (Unpainted, as you said). What I'm wondering is why some cars have painted surrounds, while others are unpainted.

Most likely because:

- original black paint has fainted and completely been striped off or,
- original black paint has fainted and the parts have been silver painted.

No such factory-original grills (in bare silver or chrome).

Many parts like this live a hard life under the Southern/American sun - this is a fine example.. :)

Originally these grill parts are anodized aluminum - and then painted.

Yes, all the brochures I have (from various markets) show black and silver surrounds on all 140s with that type of grill.

John

Hmmm, that's certainly interesting. They must be quite fade-prone then.

I have photos of my 142E going back 23 years, and she's always had the Silver/Faded Surrounds. I was hoping this would have a more interesting explanation, but this'll do!