The advice thus far is good. I've owned various japanese cars including Honda, Mazda, and Toyota, and agree that they are more reliable, but not as durable as a RWD Volvo. I think Volvo's are more expensive to fix if you go to the dealer. If you buy parts mail order and do work yourself, Volvos are great - simple and lots of space to work.

I would also consider a 240 if I were you. I own a 740 and a 240, both of the same year, and I think the 240 is a more sound car. The 740 is more modern in numerous ways, but the 240 is more solid.

That being said, if you get a 740 be sure to look at a couple things:
- replace original radiator with an all metal aftermarket (take this seriously)
- avoid the 16 valve (its a fine engine, it just suffers from an interference design like most modern engines. if the timing belt brakes the engine is fried. Stick with the 8 valve boat motor Volvo is famous for.)
- Do not buy a 760/780. Neither will suit your needs.
- Do not buy a turbo. turbos work great on Volvo engines but they introduce a level of complexity and expense that you don't want.
- Don't shy away from the automatic transmission. Most Volvos have them, and they work fine.
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88 745 GLE 200K, 88 240 GL 150K