I'm hoping for some advice from more experienced Volvo owners. My first Volvo, an '86 240 wagon, is nearing the end of its time this side of a crusher. It's got 240K miles on it, a bad differential and enough rust that it's not worth reviving. I need to shop for a replacement vehicle, but I don't know much about newer models. I run a part-time woodworking business, and use my wagon to haul lumber (on an aftermarket roof rack) and small pieces of furniture (in the back). It's also used for errand running around town and occasional longer trips - total mileage per year is only 6K or so.

I do most of my own vehicle maintenance, and have gotten comfortable with my 240. I've replaced all the brake calipers and rotors, the blower motor for the heater, and installed a new engine wiring harness after discovering that the insulation on the original wires was crumbling off.

If you were in such a situation, would you be inclined to look at newer 240s (92 or 93), or would you lean towards a newer model like an 840 or 740? I know virtually nothing about these, and don't have a sense of whether they would be as dependable, long-lasting or affordable to maintain as the 240 has been. What would your preference be, and why?

I'd appreciate any thoughts you might have.