Volvo RWD 200 Forum

My mom drives a 2000 S40 that I take out occasionally to get gas for her or run short errands. At one time my parents tossed around the idea of getting rid of my car, giving me the S40, and getting a new one for themselves. If I had a choice, I'd actually like to keep the 240--give me an A/C recharge and install my power sunroof kit, and there'd be no question.

The S40 definitely feels like a smaller car. That makes sense, since the RWD cars were distinguished by trim levels and luxury moreso than internal size (240 vs. 740), whereas Volvo now offers a BMW-style tiered lineup of cars, from the compact and "entry" level S40 to the large and luxurious S80.

The S40 is quieter, sure. Remember that the 240 is working off of a 30-plus-year-old body--I think it deserves a little leeway here. At least they added the felt door seals in the late 1980s! Anyway, we'll see how the S40s are doing when they age a decade or so.

The throttle is more responsive, but remember it's a newer car with more advanced technology and a turbo. I love punching the pedal and spooling up the throttle, with the resultant squeal of a wheel, and then I remember that it's one of the front wheels that's making that noise. I then wish for RWD.

It seems the suspension is a lot tighter on the S40, even my mom's baseline car. Again, I attribute that to newer parts and newer technology--in terms of handling, a 240's R-sport setup could probably rival or beat a mock S40 R kit.

I bet the A/C was wonderful. (No challenge here!)

I can't speak for how people's perception of speed differs (though I believe noise tends to up the perceived speed, and quietness does the opposite), but it probably has something to do with the S40's smaller size.

The S40 is okay, but our experience with it has been mixed. I think that most of our problems (mechanical issues) stem from the fact that it was hit in a parking lot, causing $20,000 worth of damage, after we had had it for only a year. It came quite close to being totaled, and unfortunately the dealer didn't do a very thorough job of repairing everything to Volvo spec. My mom still drives the car and tolerates it, not complaining, but I know that if I had the car I'd find a ton of issues with it. I'd rather keep my 240.
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'89 244 GL -- 122,400 miles (see profile for info on car)