Drooping headlining, non functioning dash lights, non functioning seat heater, non functioning dash gauges. Electrical faults like this are common on aging 740s.
Some jobs are tricky on this car - the timing belt is a job best left for those who really know what they are doing, as is adjusting the tappets.
Make no mistake, this is not a car you buy for performance and handling prowess. It excels as a straight line motorway cruiser. Big, lardy, squishy seats and suspension, it's very much like a Granada but with better build quality. The body is amazingly good for an 18 year old.
So far the engine - which I have read bad things about - seems to be doing fine. It's the D24 VW 2.4 straight six turbo as used in the LT vans. It hasn't used a drop of oil or water and I think it sounds amazing.
0-60 is nothing spectacular, but the mid range pick up when the turbo kicks in is exceptionally good for such a big heavy car.
It has the 4 speed manual box, with unusually, an overdrive-type button to engage 5th. I find it too low geared in 1st and 2nd.
If only the electrical system was put together with the same care as the rest of the car.
A quick update. I wrote the original review, the Volvo continues to provide sterling everyday service. its normally around 38-40 mpg depending on how its driven, and aside from routine maintenance such as timing belts and servicing it has required nothing. It sailed through its last MOT.
They can bury me in this one.
Another update from the original poster. I still have it and it just sailed through ANOTHER MOT.
Best 300 quid I ever spent, this one!
Note: A Comments RSS Feed is available. New comments appear in the Members Area before the main site