Hello all, happy new year.
I own a 92 Volvo 240 wagon that I bought 2 years ago with over 300,000 kms on it. It had been well maintained by the original owner, presently has about 340,000 kms and has served me well (new shocks, exhaust and brakes were put on a year ago). There is not much rust on the body nor on the floorboards. THe A/C quit last summer. My main purpose is commuting, and all-around car in the winter (I have an 82 diesel Benz sedan and an 82 Land Cruiser diesel wagon for spring, summer, fall driving and specialty use). With the recent acquisition of the Land Cruiser, I don't have as much need of the roominess and hauling capability of the 245, which is outstanding.

Since my 245 is getting on in age (though I know some people have much more mileage on them), I am considering replacing it with something else in the Spring. I know I would need to buy new summer tires in the Spring, and am concerned about potential other repairs I may incur eventually. I do like the safety aspect of it, and the fact that parts can readily be bought for it. Also I have 2 teenagers about to start driving, and I would feel better to lend them the old Volvo (though they don't like the look of it!), for safety and insurance purposes.

I'd like to get something comfortable, reliable, roomy, dependable, owner-maintainable, safe, reasonably fuel efficient etc. Since I now have a Toyota truck and have owned a Camry wagon in the past, I though of a mid-90's Camry, which are very reliable and reasonably trouble-free. Others have suggested an older BMW. I basically want a car that's going to be relatively easy and not too costly to maintain, that I will feel comfortable and confident heading off on multi-hour highway trips with. I also thought of maybe trying to hunt down a lower-mileage 240 or 245, and benefit from the many used Volvo parts that I acquired for my 245.

I realize that many/most of you will likely suggest I either stick with my 240 wagon, or go with a 240 with less mileage, I'm hoping that other potential avenues could be suggested for me to consider as I start looking around. Thanks!