I would think that the 740 would be overall the nicer family car. I think it's a little roomier, and it's definitely more refined than the 240T.

The 240T was only made from 81-85. Maybe 1980, I forget. The 740T was made from 85-91 or 92.

For the manual tranny, the 240T would be much easier to find than the 740T. You could also get a 740 and swap in the trans. Not too difficult.

The 740 will have a much better torque spread than the 240. The 740 will ride more comfortably and is more quiet than the 240. Electrically, the 740 I think would be more reliable than the 240. Either car before 87 or so will have problems with rotting engine wiring harnesses. The 240 will have more problems with rust.

All the 240T and probably most of the 740T will have leather seats. Probably shot by now. Either wagon can be fitted with the 3rd seat, and the purchase cost should be pretty low. Both cars have lots of potential for performance modifications, with the suspension, and the engine.

If you can deal with an auto tranny (or swap in your own manual), you should also look at the 940T, the best ones will be 93-95. Very similar to the 740, but more of the problems have been worked out.

Greg