1990 Volvo 340 GL review from UK and Ireland

Alternator, shocks, wheel bearings, and rear brake slave cylinders have been replaced, but that's to be expected with 135,000 miles on the clock. The only time it has given trouble on the road was when the primary main jet in the carb became blocked, but I was still able to get it home.

People say 340's don't handle, but with good tyres, plenty of experience and familiarity with one you can get lots of fun upsetting people with supposedly superior vehicles. I found that Kleber 175/70 x 13 tyres worked well and give excellent feedback through the steering wheel, your ass and your feet. I recently replaced the Klebers with Michelins which are appalling by comparison - they just don't communicate. Next set of tyres will be Klebers again. One great thing about 340's is that nobody takes any notice of them; thieves or police. There's a lot to be said for blending in. It may not be considered a 'cool' car, but I believe cool is a state of being, not the car you drive.

So if you have enough self esteem that you don't feel the need for a four wheeled manhood extension, buy a 340. Make sure it's a 1.7 not a 1.4 - I drove a 1.4 once and it was gutless. It's surprising how much difference that 300cc makes.