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Besides the newer 240 or the Subaru, you might consider a Volvo 940 wagon, '93 and up. I've had several 245's and loved them all. I bought a '93 945 and think it is basically a better wagon than the 245 for the most part. Its seat fold down and cargo set up is better. The 945 handles better. The electrics are much more modern and reliable, the very cold AC is R134 and the heater is even better than the 245. The seats are leather and more comfortable with electric seats on the driver's side. The 945 has electric outside mirrors which are heated. The 945 has a driver's side airbag on mine and both sides on newer models. The 945 has SIPS side protection in the body structure. The 945 has ABS brakes. The 945 is a quieter carthan the 245.
The engine in the 945 is the final evolution of the red-block B230 and there is more room to work on the engine in the 945.
There are a few drawbacks. Most 945s come with the AW71L automatic. This is a very strong, durable tranny and is a great in-town tranny. At speeds of 45 to 65 there isn't much passing power. Things get better from 65 on up. I'm not talking turbo here. I got better mileage with my '88 240, 5spd, but the 945 isn't terrible. Many of the 945s come with the Bendix designed Rex/Regina ignition and fuel system such as mine has. This is a good system but parts are a bit more expensive and harder to find. I've not had any problem with mine.
One of my sons has had two Subarus (sedans) and they have been reliable. I have helped him do a timing belt and brake pads and it was not hard to do. I think you are on th eright track, just add the 945 to the others and see what you can find. Good luck.
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