1989 Volvo 240 DL 1.4 from North America
Summary:
Loved it so much, we bought another one!
Faults:
The only problem we have ever had with this vehicle was the circuit board in the right tail light lost it's conductivity. We had to replace the tail light.
My vehicle needs to be repainted. The clear coat and paint didn't seem to hold up real well on my once silver car. Has the look of brushed stainless steel now.However, the body of the vehicle has stayed rust free after 15 years, even with it being outside all the time and in snow and salt.
General Comments:
The suspension on this car makes it not handle all that great, especially while cornering.
The seats could be more comfortable. They are hard to adjust to get them exactly the way you would like them to feel.
Like it's earlier predecessors, this car is made for safety and durability. It does not have the tons of power American cars have, and doesn't like to go much over 75 mph, and it can take quite awhile for it to get up and go.
A winter package is the way to go with this vehicle. Not only does it give you an early version of traction control, but it also provides heated seats for those really cold mornings, if you live anywhere that is prone to freeze.
Routine maintenance is easy to do yourself, and the engine compartment is highly user friendly. There is plenty of room, everything is clearly marked, and oil changes to brake pads are fairly uncomplicated to do. I was shocked to find out that replacement pads for the brakes were under $20 at any auto parts store. Aftermarket rotors, under $30. It doesn't get any better than this!!!
Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes
Review Date: 1st March, 2004
2nd Apr 2005, 19:28
We're on our second used 240 wagon, a 1989 manual, and we love it. It's incredibly spunky. I'd recommend a manual if you can find one! We found that putting 205/70 -14 tires on the car (not the recommended size, but will work fine) improves the cornering roll tremendously.