I would say go for it. We just bought our first Volvo (previously owned 4 VW's, 3 Fords, 2 Suzuki's, 1 Dodge, and 1 Datsun - still own a Neon & and an Escort), it is a 1990 240 Wagon. It was also a one owner car, with 210,000 miles on it, most of the service records, and in very good shape. We paid $4000, so I think $5500 for a low mileage 240 would be very fair.

We've put 4,000 miles on it in the last few months, and had the timing belt break, and a tire blow out (debris in the road), but overall I am impressed with the car. Lots of room, acceptable power, well balanced chasis (50/50 weight distribution), decent gas mileage (24-25 mpg), and built like a tank.

Good Luck

I would agree with Guy. My '89 244 is the best car I've ever owned. The thing is built like a tank. Check out the 700/900 FAQ on the site for things to check when buying a 240. My only problems have been from lack of care from the previous owner (and an aftermarket sunroof that leaks!). Trust me, after driving this one, you will see the true value of the pre-Ford Volvo's.

I have an 89 240 we bought new (same as a 90 except airbag), and it absoulutely has been the best car we have ever owned. May not be the latest styling but they are extremely tough solid cars. Ours has 140k miles and has never let us down, starts and goes every time. I am currently averaging about 20k miles a year and plan on keeping it for several more years. I would feel completely comfortable taking off on a cross country trip in it. But that being said, routine maintenance is very important to avoid costly repairs. You should probably figure on about $500 annually for upkeep- minor repairs (you can do a lot of them yourself), tires, battery, shocks, etc. I am amazed at the network to support keeping these cars running- this website, aftermarket suppliers like the advertisers on this board. I would recommend to have it checked out by an independent mechanic that knows 240s. Check under the car for oil leaks (my biggest headache), including the plastic screens on the bell housing at the rear of the engine. If you find oil coming out here the rear main seal is no good, which is an expensive repair. Also check out the A/C which can be expensive to repair. The engine should last forever if it has been properly maintained. Good luck.

My 1990 240 with just over 246K rolls on. I have Mobil 1 5W-30 synthetic in the crankcase, and it does not burn a noticable amount of oil over a 7.5K change interval. Gets about 26 MPG, and the synthetic helps here IMHO. The transmission shifts quite well.

Some of the disposables are in not-so-good shape, by this I mean the shocks, struts and suspension pieces. They are easy to replace, but other things (like time) keep getting in my way.

Basically with a good body and drivetrain any 240 is a good buy, because all the other parts can be replaced. What are they asking for it? Service records? Area of the country?