1985 Volvo 340 DL review from UK and Ireland

Carb needed replacing because of bad hot weather performance, £10 for a low mileage Webber 32 DIR from a breaker.

Fuel pump (common fault) failed after 85000, only cost £18 for a new one.

New front passenger ball joint (own fault, I kerbed it) and new rear brake components.

Apart from the above just general servicing and wear and tear items, just cost pence really.

Good, reliable car which is very comfortable, although not as much in the rear, but I am in the front so I don't care. Boot space is great for a small car.

The car grips well although the body roll is a little excessive, good for scaring people if u know the limits, can be evil in the wet setting off from right hand T-junctions or crossroads etc.

Torque delivery is incredible for such a small engine, it is very lusty and only struggles 5 up on sharp inclines, motorway cruising is good if a little unrefined. Acceleration is good although the engine is a little harsh at high RPM, but revving it is not required, just fun every now and then.

Brakes are amazing, they are not as 'grabby' as on some latter models, they stop strongly with little risk of locking unless required.

The steering is a little heavy and can feel numb at speed, although fairly direct, feedback is low so it can be difficult to tell exactly what the car is doing although this is rarely an issue.

Overall a great car, although costly to insure and run, MPG is not amazing (I average 33MPG) but it is worth it. I would certainly buy another.