1983 Volvo 242 DL B21 A - aspirated from North America

Summary:

Crank back the sun roof and shift gears with no end in sight

Faults:

Nothing has gone wrong with the car.

All work has been of a maintenance nature only.

Tires, brake pads, exhaust, engine mounts, door hinges, interior, paint, floor boards, wiring harness, heater fan all replaced in the name of service over the past 18 years.

General Comments:

Amazing value and longevity. She still runs and handles well and although she can't compare to my 940 SE Turbo in the performance and handling department, she'll fly down the highway at 120 or 130 km. with ease and turn on a dime on a city street.

I've never had any transmission work carried out, except replacing the cluch once during the life of the car.

The engine has been remarkable with very few repairs / service limited to timing belts, alternator brushes and oil changes every 3,500 km.

The four wheel disc brakes have only required pads.

Due to road salt in Ontario, Canada, I've had to have some professional minor body repair done over the years, including a full paint job 5 years ago. Today she looks great. Watch for rust in floor pans, expecially on the driver's side back seat.

Cloth driver's seat finally wore out in 2000, after 17 years of driving. I had her completely reupholstered in original material.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 23rd August, 2001

1983 Volvo 242 DL from North America

Summary:

A treasure

Faults:

Routine things like brakes, rotors, etc.

Replaced the clutch at 210,000.

New muffler etc. again, all of these things are routine. I have never ever had a problem with my engine.

Small electric problems and will soon need a new wire harness.

General Comments:

I love this car!

I will never give it up!

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 10th June, 2001

1983 Volvo 242 Turbo 2.1 turbo from North America

Summary:

A well built car that is safe and quick

Faults:

I have replaced some older cooling hoses, and the engine wiring harness. Previous owner replaced the turbo and the clutch. Car is reliable as long as it is maintained correctly.

General Comments:

I enjoy driving this car much more than others that I have driven. It is fairly quick, handles well, and can cruise on the highway at 80 all day long. Watch out for bad wiring harnesses in early to mid 80's Volvo's. Fun car.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 15th August, 2000