Faults:

Repairs required: Air condition compressor repaired and then re-gassed.

General maintenance requirements- no major repairs (such as engine rebuild etc.)

General Comments:

Volvo 244 DL has been a most reliable and efficient car, and has performed just as Volvo claimed since purchasing the vehicle in 1978.

Of course, regular maintenance has been performed. However, there has been no major mechanical problems beyond regular wear and tear.

Volvo claimed in 1978 that if maintained according to their specifications, the 244 would last approx. 20 years. I have been able to add an extra 8 years so far and intend on adding more (until I stop driving hopefully).

It is not the most modern car any more, but it is still very comfortable. In 1978 it was a modern car, and was much more advanced than any Australian car available at that time.

Volvo 244 has an indefinite lifespan IF it is maintained correctly and continuously. Most 244 owners have neglected their vehicles and this has contributed to their untimely demise.

Faults:

A/c didn't work when purchased.

Wipers must be manually parked.

Windshield leaks onto passenger floorboard in rain (faulty gasket)

A/c blower motor started binding up at 170,000 miles.

Water pump started leaking at 175,000.

Front struts needed replacement at 174,000.

Exhaust developed rattle at 178,000.

General Comments:

This car was well cared for and looks and drives like a ten year old car.

Fuel economy has been consistant at 19mpg in city driving.

Very solid with no creaks or body/interior rattles.

Very very minimal rust; a small spot at the bottom of the spare tire well and another on the rocker panel inside the rear passenger side door.

This car is not terribly quick, but has adequate acceleration and handles like a sports car.

This has truly been a worry-free and impressive automobile.

Faults:

Worn piston rings were replaced at 250,000 km.

Blower motor failed at 270,000 km.

General Comments:

This car has been in the family since 1979 and was given to me by my Dad in 1996. Since then it has proved to be utterly reliable except for worn piston rings and a failed blower motor for the fan.

The handling is prodigious and heavy, but for a car of its age and safety standards, that is a small price to pay. I particularly love the way the doors close with a solid thunk! Makes you feel like you're cocooned in a tank!

I especially like the rubber bumpers which sometimes allow me to to park by touch. No fear of scrapes or nudges causing painful paint scratches on the vehicle.

The car is stable to drive at cruising speed, 90-100 kmph as the weight and soft suspension tend to soak up any bumps or corrugations on the road. Have driven it virtually all over Kenya in some of the toughest terrain and this car never ceases to amaze me!

If you want a fast car, don't get one; (0-100kph in 20sec). If you want a safe comfortable way to get around, I can't think of a more economically viable option.