1991 Volvo 440 DL review from Netherlands

On several occasions, about every 15.000 km, the engine starts running rough, to the point that power output decreases dramatically and the engine is very difficult to keep running. Only docile and coordinated application of throttle pedal and manual choke (yes it still has a choke, it's a carburettor engine!) can avoid a forced emergency stop. However, the problem always boils down to the fact that the carburettor comes loose from the engine block, sucking in false air and it just needs to be re-tightened underneath the air filter assembly. Usually I undo the whole carb in the same move and clean it out, as this is a minor job. Time and again the car runs fine and smooth afterward.

On one occasion the engine temperature ran high in a few seconds. Immediate investigation revealed a loosened coolant hose fitting, leading to a loss of all fluid. The AA's fix was quick and it never reoccurred (20.000km ago).

Windshield wipers have to be of the type with a wide spoiler, as the (LHD) driver's side tends to float at speeds above 120 km/h.

Brake pads had to be renewed. Due to mostly long distance runs (in excess of 200 km) this had to be done only after a massive 70.000 km.

I bought the car 2 years ago with a new spare exhaust end pipe, which was fitted about 50.000 km ago and is still in fine condition.

Generally a basic, but very reliable and safe car. The seats are very comfortable, the performance is sufficient for anyone's daily use. By comparison to new cars the Volvo 440 is on the noisy side and that's the reason I am looking for a more luxurious model with the bells and whistles you would expect on a larger Volvo, but which the 440 lacks completely.

As the car was purchased for only a few hundred Euros, an absolute bargain and definitely a lot of value for money!