I live in Chicago (cold winters and hot summers). Which thermostat would be my best choice - 82, 87, or 92 degrees??

Thanks

Here in CT, I always run the stock, 92°C unit. No troubles. Keep the system in good shape and go after any leaks. Keep in mind any original components, especially a radiator this old, is just begging for trouble.
Replacing it on your terms, will be a lot cheaper than a tow, and the downtime associated with an emergency repair.
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Rob Bareiss, New London CT ::: '87 244DL/M47- 225K, 88 744GLE- 209K, 91 244 183K. Also responsible for the care and feeding of: 88 745GLE, 229K, 88 244GL, 146K, 87 244DL, 235K, 88 245DL, 236K

In our 1994 940 owner's manual, Volvo specify the 92C stat for the non-turbo cars, and the 87C only for the turbos. In our 1983 240 manual they specify the 92C for all engines, including the B21 turbo. I use a 92C in all our Volvos. No overheating in California summers, and better cold weather performance. (Two of the cars are in snow country.)

If you are doing a fair bit of city driving in cold weather, I feel that's even more reason to use the 92C unit, as the higher internal engine temperature will evaporate harmful condensation more quickly, and avoid oil dilution and sludge formation. Better heater output, too.
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Bob (81-244GL B21F, 83-244DL B23F, 94-944 B230FD plus grocery-getter Dodge minivan, MGB, and numerous old motorcycles)

87 is stock. You probably won't even find an 82 in Chicago, only in hot climates. I can't see why anyone would want a 92.

FYI, I replaced the t-stat in my '87 244 B230F a couple years ago, and it was a 92°C with an "8.86" date code. I was a little surprised that it wasn't a lower temp. I think the one RPR had sent was an 87°C.