As far as what years are the best choice-Id say-the later the model the better-and from what Iv learned here on the brickboard--88 and up are better than the pre 88 models due to the tendency of the wiring harnesses to be more prone to problems (insulation rot/etc). I would try to find a rust free 88 and later 240. Take a good look at the floors and rockers for rust and/or past quick fixed rust problems. I say that as Iv seen 240s that had the floors lathered from underneath with pep boys undercoating. As always stated here on the brickboard-inqquire about any maint records. Also when taking any potential new aquisition for a test run-make sure the overdrive works. Get a feel for what shape the front end and brakes are in. Check the ground where its parked for major oil leaks-look around the prone leaking ares-rear main seal and front seals. If you in a state that does require the treadmill type emisions testing -examine the exhaust system. None of the component are that expensive nowadays-but-it adds up quickly if you have to do a cat conv and etc. Check the coolant resevoir for anything other than coolant-look to see if tranny fluid isnt in the resevoir-as-if so-a new radiator and flush will be needed. As far as prices-240 prices seem to vary on different geographical areas. I do alt of looking-(its a disease-haha) and here in coastal NJ-Iv seen nice clean 240s-model years 88 and up going from anywhere between 1800- 4000 dollars-depending on the year and milage. Also-if A/C is a big factor-check the system out-93s had the 134R refrigerant. Iv seen a number of cars for sale-and the seller would state-it just needs a little charge-75 % of the time-they will need more than that-or they would have charged it up prior to putting the car up for sale. Good luck-you are making a good choice for a second car if you can do the maint yourself-take your time shopping around and buy the best car within your budget. Iv found that in most cases-- plan on or allow some funds for something needing to be done to the car--after the purchase--tune up parts ,brake pads, hoses, taillight circuit boards--keep in mind-if you do get lucky enough to find a 93 240 in your price range-we are still talking about an 11 yr old car.