1983 Volvo 240 DL review from Finland
"Feels like a WW2 Panzer and consumes fuel like a WW2 Panzer"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
- The exhaust broke away because of rust.
- Rust under the car, patched.
- Most important: The speedometer (together with kilometer counter) stopped working. Still it is not working; probably I have to go fix it. It seems it is due to faulty cable.
General comments?
+ Extremely reliable car. Workhorse.
+ In a previous comment; it was mentioned that the car started at -20C without problems. I AGREE COMPLETELY. The car is just made for winter. Two weeks ago the temperature dropped below -25C and the car just started! (Although not as smooth) My previous car; Opel Vectra 1994 refused
to start.
+ Fun to drive in winter due to slippery back. Fun fun fun. Slip'n slide, but thanks to rear wheel traction; very easy to control.
+ Very quick and powerful heater. It's like magic. Previous car took ages to heat up.
+ Very solid car; you feel secure; as if in a tank.
- Not much power.
- Only 4 gears (car really needs a 5th gear)
- "GAS GUZZLER" even though it is a mere 2.0.
Recommended Reviews:
  | 1983 - 240 GL 2.3L Inline Four Mild, unreliable sports car wrapped in ugly family-car body |
  | 1982 - 240 GLT Sedan 2.3 fuel injection I-4 115hp Safety, dependability and character. Everything a 13 year looks for when buying an old automobile |
| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | Yes |
| Model Year | 1983 |
| First year of ownership | 2004 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2006 |
| Engine and transmission | 2.0 Manual |
| Performance marks | 5/10 |
| Reliability marks | 10/10 |
| Comfort marks | 8/10 |
| Dealer Service marks | |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 7/10 |
| Distance when acquired | 305000 kilometres |
| Most recent distance | 318000 kilometres |
| Previous car | Opel Vectra |
| Date of Entry | 24th February, 2006 |