I have an 91, 740 (Mom gave it to me, she got a new Toyota Prius). I maintained this Volvo since 1999. The mileage is 190K. This Volvo was promised to my daughter, but she seems to like to drive drunk, and I am reluctant to give it to her. I wonder if I should keep this car and fix it with new parts, used parts, or sell it as is (who would even want it ?), or junk it, or trade it in, possibly in combo with a 90, 240 (one of my other vehicles), and, maybe even along with a 94 Honda Accord? But I know dealers wont give you jack, and its better to sell it (but when?). At any rate, I suppose asking people on a Volvo enthusiast their opinion of a used Volvo, site is like asking a Chevy dealer his opinion of a Chevy. But if anyone can offer any objective advice, what would you do with this particular Volvo? I really dont need three vehicles. Also, I like Volvo wagons much more than the sedans, so it has to go, sooner or later. But of the two Volvos, the 90, 240 and this one, this one is in much better condition. As for getting another vehicle, there are issues with all of them. First of all, there is the gas mileage issue with most of them, and especially the V6's -- no way I'd get an 8 cylinder. For instance, I like Jeeps but my research says they have driveability, electronic, and transmission problems (every 75k). However, Jeep owners never tell me such things, only the independent techs and Consumer Reports. I like the 4WD Toyota, mid-size pickup, but how often am I going to need one -- not much, and then there is the added issue of an open back vs a closed back. I also like BMW's, and Audis, but again, my research, along with CR, and some former dissatisfied owners say, "You think you got problems now." Might as well keep the Honda, since it was one of the best years for Accords. Sure wish Volvo had made a SUV with a B230F, now wouldn't that have been a great vehicle.

Below is a list of the work I have done on this vehicle from time to time, as well as, the work that is still needed. (I figured that such lists might be helpful to answer the question. I didn't include common maintenance items, like brake pads, flame traps, wiper blades, fluids, filters, tires, thermostat, etc., since all vehicles need those things).

740 Work Done:
AC magnetic clutch
Alt Brushes
Antenna
Brake light bulb holder
Control arm
Tie rods, pass inner; both outer
O2 sensor
Leaky head gasket sealant fix (has held for 5 + years)
Crank sensor wiring

740 Work Needed:
300 rpm idle drop after putting trans in D
AC recharge
Leaky head gasket
Trans mount
U joint
Pass side body work: F fender; Door dents; Rear fender smooth dent
Head liner completely shot
Drivers seat plastic missing
Needs various plastic Int parts:
Correct drivebelts -- Gates, Genuine Volvo, Goodyear, Dayco are too narrow
Valves - Need adj.
Sticky Solenoid/Starter shaft, or Ign Switch
Steering groan -- might need a new pump or rack