Scania V8 series: A Swedish legend

Since its debut in 1969, the Scania V8 has been one of the most desirable trucks in the world, capable of producing up to 730 horsepower. Today, it remains much sought after by operators and drivers, so much so that the vehicle has a merchandising operation built around it selling clothing and caps.

In the UK, the V8 is a major part of the Swedish manufacturer’s success story representing a significant part of its sales, especially to long-haul operators. It has also gained a particularly strong following among hauliers in Scotland and Northern Ireland who appreciate the power on available for negotiating hilly terrain.

The story began in 1962 when a group of senior Scania engineers sat around a table at the company’s Södertälje headquarters trying to decide what engine should power its next generation of truck. At that time, 250hp was considered the norm for a top-weight truck, yet the manufacturer decided to break the mould by developing a V8.

The idea behind the V8 configuration is that its relatively small physical size compared to its output can deliver more power and torque than its six-cylinder counterparts. The first version of Scania’s V8 in 1969 displaced 14.2-litres and developed 350 horsepower and 1,245Nm of torque.  Scania upped the power over time with a series of updates until in 1991, its R143 Streamline came with a 500 horsepower V8 variant.

By the mid-1990s, the power had gone up to 530 horsepower and torque increased to 2,300Nm, however, the basic design of the engine remained the same as when it was launched in 1969. The year 2000 saw a major change when Scania launched a largely reworked V8 unit to meet the Euro-3 exhaust emissions standard.  Swept volume increased from 14.2 to 15.6-litres, and the power again increased, this time to 580 horsepower and 2,700Nm torque.

The current Scania V8 has been developed even more, with a displacement of 16.4-litres and available with either 520, 580, 650 and 730 horsepower. 

One of the most prized V8s is the 50th Anniversary special edition, launched in 2019, and available in three anniversary colours – Ruby Red, Arctic Silver and Sapphire Blue. It features anniversary cab badges displaying each vehicle’s individual limited edition number, exclusive puddle lights and badged hub caps and mudflaps. Also, each owner of the anniversary model has been presented with a special numbered certificate commemorating their purchase.

External features include chrome trim grille air intakes, side windows and door handles and a rectangular left-side exhaust pipe design, while on the inside there is a 50th V8 anniversary badge, as well as a chrome door sill strip and styled pedals with rubber pads. 

Extra accoutrements in the limited edition include embossed leather seats with red V8 stitching, a microwave oven, coffee machine and a large screen infotainment system.

As the Scania marketeers put it: "Whether you are a driver or a fleet manager, a new 16-Litre Scania V8 is sure to put a smile on your face."

The older generations of Scania V8 also remain incredibly popular on the classic commercial vehicle scene today, and a regular sight at any classic truck show. Although rare, you may occasionally spot an early V8 still in working use on the road - testament to the outstanding quality and durability of a truly legendary lorry.

Have you ever owned or driven a Scania V8? Tell us about your experiences in the comments below.