I have a 1989 240DL (standard transmission) with 185,000 miles on it. I LOVE my car, but recently it has been doing something strange, and my mechanic has been unable to help me. While I'm driving, and it doesn't matter if I'm going 35mph or 70mph, the car will all of the sudden shut down, and the Check Engine light comes on. It doesn't stall out, it just completely shuts off. I have battery power because all of the dummy lights come on when the car shuts down, but nothing else. I cannot restart it right away. I have to wait, but after a couple of minutes, I am able to start the car again and go on my way. This is happening on a regular basis now, and I am at my wits end. My husband thinks it is an electrical problem, which is why I'm posting this question here. Has anyone had a similar problem or know what could be wrong?

Thanks for your help!

I had the same with my 89, resolder the fuel pump relay, or replace it. This sounds like a fuel pump relay problem.

I think replacing the Crank Sensor aka engine speed sensor will fix your problem. This provides the input to the computer to fire both the coil and the fuel injectors. They're known for going bad, and will leave you stuck somewhere. $40 or so. FCP Groton sells them, so does your Volvo dealer and many other places selling Volvo parts. Your 89 is the first year they used it- if it's original it's a wonder it lasted this long.
While you're at it, for piece of mind you should replace the Fuel Pump Relay, (p/n 3523608) for $30 or so. That will leave you stuck sometime as well, and while it doesn't sound like the problem here, I wouldn't rule it out. You can change that yourself in under 5 minutes without getting dirty.
Give FCP a call, they list the relay on their site but not the sensor. (877) 634-0063 - www.fcpgroton.com
Good luck with it!
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Rob Bareiss, New London CT ::: 86 244DL, 87 244DL, 88 744GLE, 91 244: 808K total