Well, I believe my 1992 245 is coming to the end of its useful life. Too much rust has taken its toll. I've owned it for 10 years and have done a lot of work on it. But the rust is in the frame and rockers now and I just don't have the time or $ to keep up with it anymore.

That brings me to my question - I have a line on a 1-owner metallic blue 1987 245 with 160k miles on it. It is a standard transmission without a factory roof rack. This configuration is probably the most desirable to me: stick-shift wagon, low mileage (for a 30 yr. 240), one-owner, garage-kept, virtually rust free (a couple small spots that can be dealt with now before problems arise), and plenty of records indicating routine maintenance.

I saw this car in a local parking lot a few months back. It was in such nice condition that I left a note with my contact info in case the owner ever thought to sell. Just got that call, so there won't be any competition. Seller is asking a very reasonable price as well.

So before I commit, are there any known problems with this model year? I have owned a 1983, a 1992 and a 1993. My '92 did not have ABS (Canadian model) so I'm ok with that. It'd be nice to have an airbag, but my '83 didn't. The A/C has been upgraded. I have no familiarity with the 2.2 system, and I have really come to rely on the onboard diagnostic system on the '92/'93. How much more challenging is it to trouble-shoot without it on the earlier models? I was not DIY'ing it with the '83, so all of my mechanical expertise has been learned on the '92/'93.

I know the engine harness has issues if it's the early version. Assuming it is the original early version harness, is it cause to not buy the car even if there is no sign of degradation? How much of an expense is it to replace? Was Volvo using the galvanized sheet metal by '87? I really want to avoid at all costs the specter of rust again as it can so sadly ruin an otherwise trustworthy and long-lived car.

Any other thoughts or concerns related to the 1987 model year? It is a true 9/10+ cosmetically and in terms of prior-owner care. The seller indicated he and his wife will probably cry when they see it go and their biggest wish is to see it go to a caring home. This is always a good sign.