Ok , lets hear opinions I own a 1989 /760 / Turbo and a 1981 242 4 speed w OD. These cars were bought from a donation auction so basically I have no money in them . If you were building a Saturday evening cruÌser ( nothing radical ) which would you choose. The 760 has 152K miles everything works but seems somewhat dull. The 242 has 119k miles but has lots of little things needing repaired , dashlights , backup light lens missing the car runs great but had been in storage since 1996 . I love these auctions because Volvo's go for nothing and I really like the cars . Which way would Yall go !!!!and why ?

I have owned an 83 245T for about 15 years, and in June this year bought a 90 760TI with 193K, but 50K engine, trans, turbo. The 90 760 is basically the same car as your 89, and I think the 245 is close in character (4sp/OD, suspension mods, etc) to the 242.
The 760 is the first autobox I've owned, and it took months for me to be comfortable with it (many adjustments of the kick-down-cable later...) but I have come to appreciate the many creature comforts the 760 has as stock - yes "dull" at first. The 240s will always handle tighter, feel more responsive, and give the impression (at least to me) that I am "wearing" the car, not cramped in it, but that it responds more quickly, precisely, etc. The 760 will remove you to some extent from the driving experience, but its a different car (understatement).

So, here's the part you should ignore. Keep them both. If the body on the 242 is still in good shape, fix it up; tune the 760 and see what happens.

And please don't think I treat my cars like they're sentient - I'm just going out and talk to my 940 - don't want it to feel ignored.

Jim Weiss
have three, want more...

Well heres my two cents as a past owner of 1982 240 and current owner of 82 240 GLT, 86 740 and 91 940. The mileage on the 240 is low for its age, but I'd consider the longevity of the body if you live in an area prone to rusting. I live in Ohio where they love to ruin cars with salt.

My 740 has just on spot of rust under the door, whereas my 82 and 83 240 really went fast once they started to rust. Also the 240 is prone to moister in the side kick panel; evident by the constant fuse/holder corrosion. Also the wiring insulation under the hood seems to have become brittle faster on the 240.

How's the turbo on the 740? Does she still pack a punch (relatively speaking, since we are not talking about stock screamers here)?

Just some things to consider.

I say take the engine including the fuel system out of the 760 turbo, and put it in the 242. Then fix up the little things. Then you'll have a unique cruiser with some power, and not much money in it!

Greg