Hello everyone.

I am considering buying a 1980 Volvo DL with the Lambda Sond package, and i was just wondering what all came in that package (or if it's even a package). Plus if it's a good package is $2500 a good deal for it? It's the two door with a 4 speed electronic overdrive, two door . I test drove it and I loved it. I was taking sharp turns at about 35 MPH. I'm just hopeing not to buy a lemon. It's in mint condition with no rust, and it also comes with four wheel disc brakes.

Thank you for what information you can give me.

Ian -- I concur that the term 'package' is a new one to me. Maybe the seller is trying to wow you with some attribute of this particular car?

Volvo was one of the earliest car makers to utilize the oxygen sensor system for emissions control. Just about every other car got on the bandwagon by the early 80's with similar systems. By 1980, all (domestic) Volvos should have had the system. For your '80, I believe, it includes the oxygen sensor (in the exhaust manifold), a control unit (behind the kick panel in the passenger side leg well), a relay by the battery, and a 'frequency valve' in the fuel line which makes subtle adjustments in the fuel pressure. On my '81, it lives near the front of the motor, directly in front of the big rubber air bellows.

On the surface, $2500 seems pretty high. Depending on mileage, presence or absence of rust, integrity of paint and the interior components like the seats, carpets, and dashboard, documentation of regular maintenance and repairs, prices for early 240s typically range from <$500 to ~$1800. Some sellers have an inflated opinion of the worth of the vehicle they're trying to sell. In Sept., I purchased an essentially rust-free '87 244 with 160k miles for $1500.

I'd suggest tapping into the Brickboard classifieds, the IPD classifieds, and the Volvo Classics Online classifieds for several days to get a feel for typical asking prices for 240s. If you can objectively document what similar cars are *really* selling for, this seller should lower the asking price.

Good luck!

Rob

I've never heard of something called the Lambda Sond "Package." Lambda Sond is just Volvo's funky name for the oxygen sensor setup that they used on their FI 4-cylinder engines. I don't think there's really anything special about that. As far as purchasing is concerned, evaluate it like you would any other car. Take into account its condition, mileage, and have it checked out by a good mechanic. But in my inexperienced opinion, $2500 sounds pretty high for an '80 242DL. I think it would have to be absolutely perfect to even consider paying that much. I'll bet there are others here who can reply with purchasing experiences.

Tim