Volvo F12-6X2
Built: 1982-1992 · Series: F12-6X2
More machines from model year 1982
Not the right version? The data comes from vehicle registers holding many near-identical versions side by side. Photograph the data plate — we read make and type from it. Open the scanner e-mail address required
Volvo F12-6X2 – cab-over long-haul tractor with a 12-litre engine and a lifting tag axle: 16 versions, 262 to 298 kW, 24.5 to 26 tonnes gross vehicle weight
From 1977 to 1993 the F12 was Volvo's cab-over flagship for long-haul transport, before being replaced by the FH range in 1993; the number 12 denotes the twelve-litre engine class. The 6X2 version carries an additional, usually steered axle for a higher gross vehicle weight. Model designations in the register, such as F12-6X2/4600+1350, give the wheelbase and axle spacing in millimetres.
Read on 3 more paragraphs
The register lists 16 versions with 262 to 298 kW from six-cylinder engines of a constant 12,000 cm³. Unladen weights range from 8,130 to 17,880 kg, gross vehicle weights from 24,500 to 26,000 kg, lengths from 6,560 to 11,500 mm and widths from 2,480 to 2,800 mm.
In the 1980s, the F12 shaped European long-haul transport alongside Scania's 2-series and was known for its rugged build and distinctive in-line six-cylinder engine. The 6X2 variant with its tag axle was particularly suited to tractor-unit work with heavy semi-trailer loads and to trailer combinations. On the used market, most surviving F12-6X2 units are complete tractor units once used in international haulage, today often in the hands of classic-truck collectors.
When buying a used F12-6X2, check rust on the frame and tag-axle suspension, the condition of the clutch and gearbox, the operation of the tag-axle lift, and the condition of the cab mounts. Drivetrain and chassis parts are supplied through the Volvo network, while specialists in classic Volvo trucks help with body and cab parts.
Sources: SpecCodex register, model data: Volvo F12-6X2, Volvo Trucks (manufacturer)
Technical data
Engine
| Power | 291 kWcorrect |
|---|---|
| Cylinders | 6correct |
| Displacement | 12,000 cm³correct |
Dimensions and weights
| Length | 9,040 mmcorrect |
|---|---|
| Width | 2,500 mmcorrect |
| Wheelbase | 3,880 mmcorrect |
| Unladen weight | 11,400 kgcorrect |
| Gross vehicle weight | 26,000 kgcorrect |
Drivetrain and chassis
| Gears | 8correct |
|---|---|
| Wheels | 6correct |
Where this model stands
Power-to-weight ratio: 25.5 kW/t (291 kW / 11.4 t)
Stronger than 51% of the trucks in the register — out of 25,242 models with a stated power figure.
Calculated from the documented figures above — not a rating.
Frequently asked questions
How much power does the Volvo F12-6X2 have?
The Volvo F12-6X2 delivers 291 kW.
How much does the Volvo F12-6X2 weigh?
The unladen weight is 11,400 kg.
What is the gross vehicle weight of the Volvo F12-6X2?
26,000 kg.
What engine does the Volvo F12-6X2 have?
6 cylinders, 12,000 cm³ displacement.
What are the dimensions of the Volvo F12-6X2?
9,040 mm × 2,500 mm.
When was the Volvo F12-6X2 built?
Production years: 1982-1992.
What to check before buying
- Check the hour meter against the service records — a replaced instrument is the most common gap.
- Compare the data plate and chassis number with the papers.
- Check the weights in the papers against the figures here — attachments change them.
- Ask about parts availability for this build year — the running costs hang on it.
A general list for this type of machine — no substitute for an inspection or an appraiser.
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This page carries 13 individual figures for this model. They come from 1 recorded source; every figure can be traced there. What we cannot document is not here — we leave gaps open rather than estimate them.
The technical data on this page comes from official vehicle registration records (RDW/Traficom), not from the manufacturer.
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Sources: Traficom — Finnish vehicle register (retrieved August 2026) · How we check the data
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