HI!

Yes, I have same opinnion, as Volvo-dad. They dont care so much about car- serving. Early 240 was fitted whith B-23A.s not E engines. Maybe eaven K-jet was too complicated in the middle- east. How ever 940 series has several motor variations, also low pressure Turbo`s. The B-230 FB/FG engines has 531 heads whith VX- cam fitted. If You don`t care ET/FT engines that can be very suitable alternative. Very well torque, but not so much high- end power. It is an European variant so maybe not available in M.E. But if You can buy VOLVO in Europe, posibilites are much bigger, to find excellent condition vechile. Good Luck.

YRS: WEBERMAN

There are lots of Volvos in the Middle East oil states. I don't recall seeing more than a few 240's (too old) but quite a few 700's. The place is overrun with M-B's and BMW's.

You should be able to pick up a decent 700 (900's are less prolific). Most 700/900 cars had a SOHC B2xx engine, which is basically a slightly updated B23. It is highly unlikely you would find a model there which you could bring back (legally) to Canada - although you didn't indicate that intent.

My observation was that they don't seem to be big on car care there - kind of a "use-it-up-and-get-a-new-one" approach. Given the climate - I'd suggest being especially watchful for signs that the engine has been overheated. So, Caveat Emptor.
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Bob (son's 81-244GL B21F/M46, dtr's 83-244DL B23F/M46, my 94-944 B230FD and 89 745 (LT-1 V8); hobbycar 77 MGB, and a few old motorcycles)

Well, I can't certainly say what was sold on the Middle East markets, but certainly the 940 and 740 (except 740GLE, 89-90) all came with the B230F or B230FT, which is essentially the same engine as your B23E, were for sale in North America.

The 89-90 740GLE came with a DOHC variation on the same basic block.