1989 Volvo 240 GL Station wagon review from Australia and New Zealand

Shocks might need replacing soon.

Drivers seat leans a little.

Air cond. needs regassing.

This is a reliable, strong, noisy old car. I don't think there is much that could kill it. It doesn't handle too well (rolls in corners etc), doesn't go too fast, isn't very refined- but it is extremely reliable and really well built. It has done 225 000kms.

I have put 205/60/15 tyres on and it drives much better (previously had 185/75/14).

Engine is reasonably noisy, which is characteristic of this model, but at least it sounds like a car, unlike some new Japanese. engines that sound like an electric whisk.

It doesn't use much petrol considering it's age (17). About 12l/100 kms city driving.

The only worry is rust. My car has none (like most in Oz), but with some 240's water leaks into the cabin and under carpet-you won't know and it will rust from inside out. Check under carpet for any signs of rust or water. Fixing leaks is not hard; Volvo forums on the net tell you where to look.

I was considering buying a W126 M-Benz S-class instead of this car because I really like the look of them, but I am glad I didn't-friends have told me the W126 would have sent me broke very quickly with major mechanical repairs, plus todays petrol prices. The initial attractiveness of a car wears off really fast when it sucks up all your money!

A good, reliable, tough car- no wonder it's called the Swedish Tank.