1987 Volvo 245 DL B230

Summary:

The best car I have ever owned

Faults:

Odometer stopped, fixed, at 200,000 miles.

Odometer stopped, again, at 237,000 miles.

Alternator rebuilt.

Radiator, water pump, several thermostats.

Steering rack replaced.

Catalytic converter replaced.

Blower motor on its way out.

Wiper motors, front, back, on their way out.

A/C out.

Paint rot setting in on roof and hood.

The plastic headlights are yellow and dim, need replacing.

General Comments:

The previous owner changed the oil every 6 months or so... problem is, he drove it 40,000 miles a year! He thankfully only had it 2 years, but left it with a lot of sludge in the engine which had to be cleaned out.

The car was also in a front impact accident before I bought it.

Since then, I put 50,000 miles on it and it has been excellent. It starts up every time and has never left me stranded. The engine and transmission are indestructible. I have neglected it for two years (just basic maintenance like oil changes and brake pads) and it needs some attention, but it runs... and runs...

As a bonus, the cargo space of the wagon is unbelievable. I have hauled everything from hardwood flooring to furniture no problem.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 25th July, 2006

1987 Volvo 245 DL B230F

Summary:

Comfortable and agrarian, the Volvo 245 is the perfect amalgam of comfort and utility

Faults:

After over 200 thousand miles, the air intake manifold needed its gasket to be replaced, ameliorating a rough idle condition.

The seams on the driver's vinyl seat have began to tear, from excessive use.

The plastic driver's headlight lens needed to be replaced, as it was taking on water, and decimating the head lamp bulb.

The back up lenses on the tail lights had cracked and failed, hence were replaced.

General Comments:

Considering that my automobile had sat dormant in direct sunlight for over three years, its general condition is remarkably good.

The comparatively tight suspension handles well, yet takes rough roads somewhat poorly.

The five speed manual is smooth, and the gears are well placed.

This model is quite stable and well planted on the interstates. Additionally, it takes wind, whether from the side or front, quite well.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 12th May, 2005

1987 Volvo 245 DL 2.3L B230F

Faults:

At 150000 the water pump finally called it quits.

At 130000 the transmission/clutch failed.

Seats are worn (I've been very rough on the interior of the car - which is why I have a new one to replace it with).

General Comments:

5 Speed manual (m47) makes a world of difference - the car can outrun my mother's '90 744 hands down.

Car is solid handler and very controllable on wet/snowy conditions.

I've carried about 1000 pounds of seed in the back with absolutely no problem.

The car is now a weekend play-toy while I'm rebuilding it - it fires up instantly whenever I get in it.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 15th October, 2001