The PV444 was Volvo's first uni-body car. It was also the first Volvo in almost 20 years to come with a 4-cylinder engine. The first PV444s were powered by a 40 hp 1.4 L inline-4 engine designated the B4B, with three main bearings, overhead valves, and a single downdraft carburetor. Late in 1955, an updated version called the B14A was given twin side-draught 1½ in SU carburetors.

By the 1957 model year^[, engine displacement was increased to 1.6 L and both single downdraft- B16A and twin side-draught-carbureted B16B versions were offered. Fuel economy was quite above average^[ and performance particularly with the twin carburetor configuration was brisk^[. The combination of performance and durability won over many two-seat sports car drivers, allowing them a pleasurable drive in the entire family's company if desired.

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