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Welcome to the world of FWD Volvos!!!!
First thing first..... I have owned 2 Volvos, a 96 850 GLT Wagon and now a 98 S 70 Sedan, so I think I know enough about the FWD with my experience and reading about the issues on Brickboard.
From what I know the RWD Volvos like your 240 are true tanks built to last, unfortunately, the FWD are not as reliable as the RWD modles. Nonetheless they are really nice and reliable cars.
Here is what to look for and avoid.
1: Stay away from the AWD models. The S70 platform was never designed as an AWD platform like the current V/S/XC series are. The 98 to 00 from what i have read are bad years for AWD. They have tons of issues with the suspension and the alignment.
2: Turbos: That is your call..... I would not recommend a used Turbo but that is my personal opinion. Only because I dont know the history of a Turbo model and its maintainance it always is a risky proposition. The Light Pressure Turbo models are pretty safe.
3: Electronics in the FWD are made by FIAT. Not a good thing or a bad thing but the newer Volvos are know to have electric issue. On both my Volvos i have had the ABS/TRACS module go bad. I replaced it on the 850 for $600+.
If you are buying a used one, make sure you have it checked over by a Volvo shop or a reliable import mechanic who has fixed Volvos. You cannot go wrong spending $100 or so having the once over on a car you plan on buying. It will be the best money you have spent.
Also, if you are buying yours with 70000 miles or close to it, make sure the timing belt has been replaced. They usually affix a sticker on the motor over the timing belt that states the replacement date and mileage. Otherwise you are looking at about $350 to replace it under the regualr maitainance plan. You can use this for negotiating the price.
I bought my S 70 used with 62,000 miles for $10,300 2 years ago, and i currently have 125,000 miles on mine and running strong.
Never had the car (knock on wood) die on me.
Here is what i have had to fix.
1: Replaced the Air Conditioner condensor unit. Was bad when i bought it.
2: Replaced front and rear brakes. Normal wear.
3: Replaced Tires
4: Just replaced front struts and rear shocks. They had started to leak.
5: Regular maintainance.......
6: My ABS/TRACS module is going bad, it stops working intermittently. All i have to do is stop the car and restart it, and the problem corrects itself. A lot cheaper fix then spending $700 to repair it.
I use Mobil 1 5/30 oil and change it every 8000 to 10000 miles.
Hope this helps!!!!!
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