1986 Volvo 740 Turbo review from North America

Turbocharger blew seals at 300,000 k

Rear Differential failed at 280,000 k

Air Conditioner failed at 380,000k.

All other major components are original.

This car is beautiful to drive. It has room for 4 adults, all their luggage (with their bikes or skis on the roofrack) and handles like a performance car. It will also carry a family of 7 in comfort (2 adults, 4 kids and a big, hairy dog) with the jump seat.

This car is so reliable that you take it for granted. The car starts at the coldest temperatures without complaint, has super climate controls, handles everything in stride and still gets decent mileage.

Parts for Volvos are less readily available than domestic makes, but larger stores carry most items or have next day service.

Dealer items are brutally expensive.

Having said that, Volvos need parts so rarely that this is not a major factor in operating one.

Also a consideration: these cars are made out of much better quality metal than most, so when you need to service them, the nuts and bolts have not rusted and you never strip them.

For example: I recently replaced the turbo charger on this car and the bolts, which have been in the same spot since the car left Sweden came out with no problem at all. Try that with your 17 year old Ford sometime.

Volvos are not cheap, but they are superior vehicles. They are very durable, very reliable and very safe. This one is also sparky and a blast to drive.