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Get a 240.
If this isn't reason enough, I don't know what is.
My 1980 245 DL Wagon now has 418K miles on the odometer, and is still going strong as ever. Original engine (never rebuilt), 2nd transmission (about 250K miles ago). Great on gas as well, maybe because it's a stick. I get just over 30 mpg on the highway, and around 24-26 mpg in the city.
I have a daily drive of about 120 miles round trip. My 240 has never once left me stranded. Never.
Only issue when buying an older car like a 240 is rust. If it's a rust bucket, run, don't walk away.
Stay away from the 6 cylinder models (260s).
STAY AWAY FROM DEISELS!
If you want more power, you can get a turbo model, but your gas mileage won't even be close to mine...
If you found a '76-'85 245 (wagon) that had a M-46 transmission (4-speed stick with OD), from a seller who has extensive records on the repairs, you should be good to go. As long as the oil is changed consistantly, you'll never have a serious problem. In 418K miles, the only major thing was the Transmission, and the replacement has lasted 250K miles and shows no signs of getting weak. (I've had the clutch done a couple of times too, but that was to be expected. They still last about 200K miles).
Good luck.
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