Shopping for a 240 of some kind for my son. I like the fact that I can get him into a somewhat inexpensive car with good safety features for not a whole lot of $.

Anyhow - what kind of milage is 'red zone' with these guys? Should I specifically look for or avoid certain features / equipment?

Wagon/Sedan - we're pretty open.

Keep in mind that the sedan and wagon are the same length, it's a common misconception to think the wagon is longer. I say that because the 240 wagon is the classic body style for these cars. They look great. I would try to find a 5-spd manual as they are quicker and quite enjoyable to drive.
In the Northeast where I live, I would only buy a 92 or 93 as the paint process had been refined to a point where there shouldn't be rust, but in your case, I might look at an 88 as it has the small steering wheel, fewer electric bits (I actually like the roll down windows) and is still a solid car.
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'94 855 2.4 Sportwagon

Jet Black/Beige Leather . 5-spd . 16' Meteors . E-code lamps & sidemarkers

This month's issue of "Rolling," the magazine of the Volvo Club of America, has a really good article on buying an older Volvo. Shows where to look for rust, etc. You can get more info at www.vcoa.org.

Rust proofing and the use of galvanized steel improved with the 88 - 89 model year. Biodegradeable wiring harnesses in the engine compartment from 80 through 87.
I have heard a number of prople say 1988 was a very good year but the 92 - 93 are as refined as a 240 gets. The next one I get will be for my daughter and will be a 92 or 93.
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85 245 M46 194K, 92 245 A70 122K

Mileage is not very important with these cars. What is more important is proper maintenance. If well taken care of these cars can go 300, 400K or more without any engine work or other major repairs.

That being said, lower mileage is usually better and under 150K is properly best as certain parts seem to wear out between 150-200k.

Most people on this board seem to agree that the later cars (90-93) are best because many of them include airbags, ABS, better A/C etc. IMO - they are also quieter and drive better than the older ones. They are, however, usually more expensive - especially 92 and 93's.

These cars are really tough to beat for durability! For example, my 90 has 236K with its original engine and drivetrain. Runs great and doesn't act like it is going to die anytime soon either!!

Good luck,
Jim 90 244DL

Oh yeah, one more thought. Rust is the number one enemy of these cars, particularly the older ones...



Jim 90 244DL

Thanks. I live in TX so rust isn't usually a problem here. Sun damage to the interior is but normally I replace those with interiors from rust-outs up North.