The truck had a payload capacity of up to 8 tonnes for the heaviest trailing axle versions.

For the first model years the Viking used the VDC motor from its predecessor L245, but it was soon replaced by the updated D67 engine.

In 1964 Volvo introduced the forward control L4851 Viking Tiptop with a tilting cab.

This model only lasted a short time, being replaced by the F86 in the summer of 1965, similar in appearance but nearly all-new underneath the skin.

Beneath the Viking cab Volvo conducted extensive changes including a new engine, a fully synchronized eight-speed gear box and a general updating of most components.