|
I've just bought a '93 940 after owning a whole bunch (4) 240's. Since I've only had it a short while, I can only give some short term impressions. The 940 drives a little tighter than our '88 240. It is quieter and I think more comfortable. The lower beltline and high roof give my wife better visibility.
The bells and whistles, power windows, mirrors, better AC, better dash lighting, electric seat are all pluses as long as they work. We have the wagon and the rear seat fold down is much more convenient. The engine compartment has more room and the alternator is mounted in a better location. The electrical system is more modern and complex and seems to be more rationally designed. The relays, for example, are not scattered all over the car in strange places. The on-board diagnostics may be a help in the future but I'm still learning how they work. The auto transmission has a lock-up feature over 45 mph which drops engine rpm several hundred rpm when it acts. It's like having a 5-speed trans. At 65 the rpm are almost the same as my '88 240 with the M47 trans in 5th gear. Supposedly the differential is a limited slip type but I haven't confirmed that yet. The suspension seems to be a more modern design then in the 240. No more trailing arm bushings!
On the minus side, it seems harder to get into spaces. For example, pulling the radio or replacing dash lights seems harder. Maybe it will get better with experience. There are two fuel/ignition systems. The familiar Bosch system and the Rex-Regina system. There are some major differences in their design. Moving from the 240 Bosch system to the 940 Bosch would be easier than to the Rex-Regina. My 940 has the Rex-Regina and I sort of wish it had the Bosch. There is more in the FAQs and archives about the Bosch. I don't know if there is any difference in reliability, but I notice that parts for the Rex-Regina are much more expensive than for the Bosch. Right now I'm looking for an intermittant no-start problem. I'm getting suspicious of the RPM sensor but that same sensor is used in the Bosch system.
The engine is very familiar to 240 owners. I just changed the timing belt and replaced the front oil seals. It was the same as on my 240s. My 940 has an electrical cooling fan which I like. There's more room to work on the T-belt.
Well those are my observations on the 240 - 940 comparison. I had to look for several months to get one I liked. I'd prefer the Bosch system but I think I'll learn to take care of the Regina eventually. Hope this helps.
|
