1988 Volvo 340 DL review from UK and Ireland
"All it needs is a 5th gear... good car"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
Boot doesn't stay open.
Boot lock fell out.
Radiator needed replacing.
New clutch.
New radio as the original gave up.
New carb seals as the originals perished.
Heater controls stay on full heat.
General comments?
A fantastic present from my Grandparents who owned it from new. Despite lots of niggles when I first had it, it has proven to be a very capable and flexible car - albeit 'angular' in design.
Huge load carrying capability - can transport 2 bikes + windsurfer on the roof or a minimal surfboard inside with the front seat flat.
Despite being an insurance write off twice it is still going strong and refuses to give up the ghost. Nothing on the market to rival the 340 in terms of comfort, safety, durability.
Undesirable image allows it to be left without worry of theft.
1.4 engine is same as the Renault 5 GT Turbo (but without the turbo block), tempting to get it modified.
Would be ideal if it had 5th gear for long motorway work, as it can be noisy and heavy on the juice.
Search for New and Used Volvo 340s available in the UK
Click here to advertise your car
Recommended reviews
  | Perfect for first time drivers, if you can drive a 340 you can drive anything! |
| A much under-rated reliable classic with tuning potential! |
| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | Yes |
| First year of ownership | 1999 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2001 |
| Engine and transmission | 1.4 Manual |
| Performance marks | 8/10 |
| Reliability marks | 9/10 |
| Comfort marks | 10/10 |
| Dealer Service marks | 7/10 |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 6/10 |
| Distance when acquired | 36000 miles |
| Most recent distance | 52000 miles |
| Date of Entry | 2nd December, 2001 |