1987 Volvo 740 GL review from UK and Ireland
"Floats like a battleship, stings like a bus"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
Original starter motor seized at 126000 miles and was replaced with a reconditioned unit.
Entire exhaust system, luckily non-catalyst, has been replaced, from manifold to tail pipe, as each section rotted or failed.
All 4 original unmatched tyres replaced, with a matched set, around 125000 miles. Road holding slightly improved.
Rear discs & pads replaced.
Right side tie end rod replaced (twice in 2 years for Mots?)
Slight crack to radiator cured with quick fix sealant, but it will probably have to be replaced.
Timing belt needs replacement.
General comments?
For a large heavy sedan car, I think it's quite nimble, but it does not take kindly to being pushed too hard, through the corners. I think it always feels slightly top heavy?
Pity no fuel injection, I'm sure that would make a big improvement to it's get up & go. But it can hold it's own in the cut & thrust of rush hour traffic.
Cabin is naturally very spacious with large comfortable seating. Easily carries 5 large adults. Boot space is the envy of friends, with more modern cars. Ski hatch in rear seat back, has proved very useful, for transporting long pointy things. eg 7 foot gate post.
Front and side views, through glassed areas is good, but rear windscreen, is small, almost chopped too short, for such a large car?
I enjoy it's sure footed, long distance, highway cruising, makes for very relaxed driving. It's a real boulevard cruiser.
Power assisted steering, electric side mirrors, electric front windows, manual sun roof and a decent sound system are nice extras.
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![]() ![]() | The Volvo 740 is one of the best production cars ever built |
![]() ![]() | 1986 - 740 GL Estate 2.3 petrol (Carb) Comfortabe brick, with low cost, practicality buit in |
| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | Yes |
| First year of ownership | 2001 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2003 |
| Engine and transmission | 2.3 Manual |
| Performance marks | 6/10 |
| Reliability marks | 9/10 |
| Comfort marks | 9/10 |
| Dealer Service marks | 5/10 |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 7/10 |
| Distance when acquired | 122000 miles |
| Most recent distance | 137000 miles |
| Previous car | Toyota Camry |
| Date of Entry | 7th July, 2004 |




