1989 Volvo 245 dl review from North America
"This car is a keeper--really!"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
Original timing belt broke at 189,000mi.
Driver's seat and dash have split (typical)
Showing some bits of rust now.
Had to replace trail arm bushings.
General comments?
I bought my 1989 245 in 1996 with 87K miles for $7K. Last week she turned over 217K. That's 130,000 miles over 10 years and it has NEVER failed to start. Even with my sporadic maintenance, hard driving, and almost never cleaning it, I have always been impressed with how she holds up under just about any condition. Only car in the neighborhood to start when it was -26 degrees; carries more than my Mom's explorer; runs up the snowy hills with ease (passed a slipping jeep one time) ; slept in the back to save $ on road trips; etc.
Style is subjective. Aesthetics are personal. The 240 series Volvo has held very strongly in both by millions around the world for years and years. I will continue to drive the old wagon until she fails. I just don't think she ever will.
Recommended Reviews:
  | Cheap, reliable, boxy, comfortable car |
| The best car I have ever owned |
| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | Yes |
| Model Year | 1989 |
| First year of ownership | 1996 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2005 |
| Engine and transmission | 2.3L Manual |
| Performance marks | 7/10 |
| Reliability marks | 10/10 |
| Comfort marks | 8/10 |
| Dealer Service marks | 7/10 |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 10/10 |
| Distance when acquired | 87000 miles |
| Most recent distance | 217000 miles |
| Previous car | Triumph Spitfire |
| Date of Entry | 27th December, 2005 |