Faults:

The harmonic balancer was replaced under warranty at 116 000 kms.

Wiper arm needed adjustment.

1 blown ignition courtesy lamp globe.

1 blown rear numberplate lamp.

General Comments:

This car is very quick in and around town, a dream to park and has a beautifully responsive gearbox.

The seats are not as roomy as some of the larger Volvos, but is still comfortable.

The hatch is roomy and the fold down seats allow for more space.

Vision is somewhat restricted by the rear head rests, but OK once you learn where to "look".

Dash layout simple, but very driver friendly as it is angled towards the driver.

Side mirrors are not as generous as larger models.

Very economical but does prefer premium unleaded fuel compared to unleaded.

For people not into the Swedish brick look (I am by the way :) ) this car is unlike the earlier boxy types and often gets the comment "gee it doesn't look like a Volvo".

This car is light in weight and can be blown around a little in high winds.

Has great pulling power for a little car and will surprise you on steep hills.

Faults:

Short-circuit with a small fire.

General Comments:

My Volvo 440 turned out to be very solid and comfortable. On highways it feels very safe and fast enough. In cities and bumpy roads, it gets a bit less comfortable, as if it wanted to say "why do we need to go here?".

Actually it was manufactured in the Netherlands and we drive two times week past its birthplace, the former Volvo/Mitsubishi/Dutch government venture in Born.

Faults:

Water pump @ 77,000 miles.

Interior finish around the door handle separating from the cushioning.

All that has been replaced apart from water pump is the timing belt, tires and exhaust.

General Comments:

Very reliable, still getting 45 mpg.