1988 Volvo 240 GL Wagon review from Australia and New Zealand

Not too much besides normal wear and tear.

New catalytic converter at 200 000 kms. Power steering rack at 190 000 kms. These are the only expensive repairs done.

I think the 240 is a really good car. It is practical- you can load a lot of stuff into the boot. And it's pretty comfortable.

It is a simple car mechanically- 2.3 litre fuel injected engine that is easy to work on for amateur mechanics. It has little in the way of options- no power windows or other electronic comforts, but this means less to break down.

The engine does lack power, producing 85 kw @ 5400 rpm, but has reasonable torque 185nm/2700 rpm.

Few major repairs have been needed on this car. As I mentioned the power steering rack needed replacement with a reconditioned one and the catalytic converter was replaced. Both of these jobs were reasonably expensive. Besides this, regular servicing has been all that's needed. The engine block and head are really strong on the B230 engines and according to my local volvo workshop are found in cars at the wreckers still capable of doing more miles. Despite this I am expecting higher maintenance costs as the mileage increases (now about 203 000 kms)

I would recommend the Volvo 240 for anyone who needs a reasonably cheap and simple car that is well built and pretty cheap to maintain. And I also think they look good in their own way.

Remember these cars are now at least 13 years old so get one with a good service history and make sure you clean the flame trap (a lot of mechanics who don't work on Volvos don't know about it and crankcase pressure builds up and the engine seals blow out if it is not cleaned)

I will keep my 240 as long as I can- I plan on getting a newer car soon- but I don't think I can part with my wagon. Oh well, I guess I 'll have 2 cars.