The car started losing coolant after 180.000 km. Ever since I got it, it made funny noises when I started it, until the clutch pedal was pressed.
The car was very reliable and even though it looks a bit odd and dated, it was a rather fast car due to the high torque of the engine. It was also a very economic car.
For those who like comfort and a lot of gadgets, this is not exactly an ideal car considering the long options lists of Volvo dealers.
Given the fact that customers pay a premium price for their Volvo, one would expect a premium service from Volvo dealers. Nothing of the sort can be expected from Belgian Volvo dealers, alas!
I own a 1995 model 460 2.0 GLT. I bought it from my father-in-law, who was its first owner, so I know the car's history from the day it left the showroom.
It has only refused to start once, when its alternator developed a fault. This is in fact the only major item ever replaced (apart from the cam-belt which was replaced on its 5th birthday, not because it was anywhere near snapping, but just as a precaution). Otherwise it has gone from one service to the next without a hitch.
On today's standards it is dated (compared with my father in law's current Volvo S40 2.0 (2000 model) which has a much better drive and steering). However I am VERY VERY happy with it because it is a nice, comfortable car with all the gadgets and more than I need (info centre, alloy wheels, AC, 6 speaker stereo, electric windows and mirrors, sunroof etc), is still reasonably good looking even on today's standards, is completely rust-free (it's always garaged) and above all is as close to 100% reliability as any car can get.
Four years ago I bought a Volvo 460 GLE and although the car was already seven years old it was in a very good condition, due to the proper maintenance of the two former owners. Despite its square lines, I like very much its general aspect and, in fact, I consider it a classic car. As to the mecanic and comfort, I find them perfect. It's a very pleasant car to drive and I intend to keep this car as long as I can.
Popa Stefan, Braila, Romania.
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