I know nothing about volvo's so bear with me here.

I am thinking of buying a 1989 740 GLE 16v wagon from someone here in my town. From what I can tell the car is in immaculate condition and he has is advertised as "excellent running" There is no rust, all power options work fine, etc. It has 274,000 kms on it. He is asking $3500 for it. He is leaving the country and needs to sell it in a few days. I offered him $2000 for it and he said if he hasn't sold it by the end of this week then its mine for $2000.

I test drove it today and there were two things I noticed. The first is that it has a small oil leak, which he admitted, and second was sometimes on the test drive, when I would come to a stop and then accellerate again, the car didn't immediately engage, it kind of puttered for a split second, and then would suddenly kick-in and move forward. It didn't feel terrible, but it didn't feel right either.

I have searched these forums and I have read some horror stories about the 16v engines (B234F). As far as I can tell changing the timing belt religiously is essential. I don't have a lot of money so I am cautious about buying this car, although I am also thinking that I am getting this car for a really good deal for $1500 less than the asking price.

If anyone can help me out here with some advice on the oil leak and sputtering accelleration, I would greatly appreciate it.

Thanks!