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Exact model number would be nice to know: should be a badge on the right trunk lid. Things to ask/do:
1. Service history, more details the better. These cars will last forever if the oil and filter are changed every 5000 miles or 3 months, whichever comes first. There are other important service intervals: look in the owner's manual.
2. Take the car to a good independent Volvo shop for an evaluation. Should cost $50-100, and will be the best possible protection for your investment. I don't take my car to the dealer's mechanics. Ask other local Volvo owners for a referral, or ask on the BrickBoard. A good, experienced independent Volvo mechanic is just what your car needs.
3. For part of your test drive, drive the car hard. Listen for the rattles and other noises the other respondent mentioned. There will probably be some -- this is not a new car. But all suspension shops know the Volvo 200 body style REALLY WELL, and Volvo keeps every part in stock. Mere money and a bit of time, and that car will be smooth and quiet. You just gotta decide how much quiet you can afford.
4. Similar comments about the engine. There are people who race Volvos -- even earlier ones than 79. Again, you decide how much power you want to afford. The archived posts mention somebody with over 400 HP in his 240.
5. Decide whether you care what other folks think of your car. I happen to think the 240 body style looks darned good. Other folks don't -- and I don't care. However, if, God forbid, you happen to get into an accident, I sure hope you are inside a Volvo. All that safety stuff in the Volvo advertisements? It really works. Take it from me.
I admit to a very evident bias: I've been driving only Volvos since 1983. They are truly great cars.
Let us know what you decide.
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-- Bruce / '82 244 (298k miles!), '86 745, '87 760Ti, '94 854
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