1989 Volvo 760 GLE review from UK and Ireland

Squeaking rear brakes. ABS intermittent. Power steering heavy turning right, until fully warmed-up. Electric-window lifting mechanism wear. Tailgate gas-struts weak. Air conditioning refrigerant slow leaks.

Nothing to cause a breakdown, and over 100,000 miles, to be expected I suppose.

Wonderfully comfortable and supportive seats, acres of room inside, and very quiet at speed. Ride a bit more lumpy from the live axle(!) rear end than you'd expect in this class of car though ((£24,000 new in 1989!), but still very comfortable overall.

Handles as you'd expect, but it's best on the motorway, where you can drive for over 400 miles and be as fresh as when you left home.

Huge luggage space means you can carry a washing machine with room to spare, without even having to fold the rear seats down.

Auto box a 3 speed + Overdrive. Small switch on the side of gearstick to switch Overdrive in/out. No torque converter lock-up.

Surprisingly lively performer for a big old bus with an ancient engine.

Very thirsty on short journeys, as the engine takes a long time to warm up. Conversely, quite economical if you treat the throttle with restraint on a motorway run. Averages 20 mpg around town, yet 30 mpg @ steady 70mph is possible using the cruise control (if fitted). Runs on unleaded from this 89 model year onwards.

No rust visible. Uses no oil. Seems like it'll last forever bodily, and mechanically too.