1989 Volvo 240 GL review from Australia and New Zealand

Only a blown taillight bulb.

Recently the engine has started to ping, it is terrible when I use regular unleaded and so I now have to fill up with premium. This helps, but even still under strong acceleration and up hills the car pings. It drives me nuts! I have asked other 240 owners and the mechanic and people tell me that these cars don't normally have pinging problems so if anybody could assist me with this please leave a comment!

This car is great because it is so reliable and also has some distinction compared to other cars. I think its clean, strong design is timeless and classic. That's one of the main things that drew me to the model.

The upright, sturdy driving position is very comfortable. After driving other cars, even new model Volvos, I always like to get back behind the wheel of my 240.

The car slops around corners (when empty) and the brakes are quite severe, but these are things you get used to.

I really love this car, but I have to admit that sometimes it's boring to drive. It really does accelerate like a snail. I think a manual would be better. Its good to take this car out on a long drive in the country with a full load. In fact the car seems to handle much better when it's full of passengers and luggage.

I love the sensible, understated and rather utilitarian design of the dashboard and fittings. This is a very well designed car and everything is of high quality. It shows in its appearance despite its almost 20 years age. The only interior problem is the brittle door pockets which crack easily. There are also two inconspicuous cracks in the dashboard.

I love the crazy fasten seatbelt sign which flashes and ticks with such urgency until everyone's buckled up! And what about the orange safety triangles with exclamation marks that show when the doors are open?! I mean, as if anyone couldn't see it for themselves! Watch out guys! The doors open! Hazard!

But really I love my Volvo. I thoroughly recommend this model.