I'm looking at a 92 240 4 door for my wife. I presently drive an 85 BMW 325e 2 door and I know of a volov down the street from me that is in decent condition. I haven't taken it for a test drive yet, I might try it out tomorow.

It has 130K miles on it and the carfax came back clean.
Its an automatic transmission, the owner, a 20 year old girl has had it in a shop constantly for repairs on the engine, I think the mechanic is stupid and doesn't know what he is doing. If I buy the car I'll do the same I do for my bmw and get the bently or haynes manual.

What are some key points to look for in these cars? I know the usual things about checking the body & suspension etc. But what are the trouble spots I should examine closely?

Also, is this car maintenace intensive? I know with my BMW I do a little every weekend but thats because I put 900 miles a week on it, its almost worn out the syncros are gone for my 2nd gear and its only 180K miles.

What are the typical repairs I should expect with this car, how often does the timing belt need to be replaced?

Also being rear wheel drive It is heavier than my car, how well does it handle in the snow? I drove mine all winter and just threw some sand bags in the trunk for extra weight.

Also what about the automatic transmission, I tend to stay away from them if at all possible, I just don't like them. Do they last awhile? or is 130K too much for a possible original transmission?


TIA
~bigmoose