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2.8 V6 vs inline 4

Help, Advice, Owners' Discussion and DIY Tutorials on all Volvo's "mid era" rear wheel drive Volvos.

1975 - 1993 240
1983 - 1992 740
1982 - 1991 760
1986 - 1991 780
1990 - 1998 940
1990 - 1998 960
1997 - 1998 V90/S90

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oldmopars
Posts: 11
Joined: 29 December 2005
Year and Model:
Location: Burlington, NC

2.8 V6 vs inline 4

Post by oldmopars »

I'm looking at two different 760's to purchase. I can't seem to find any info on the reliability of the V6 2.8 engine. Is this a reliable engine compared to the inline 4? Any help and all opinions are appreciated.

Thanks,
R. Drake
luv the smell of high compression V8's at the line

wojeepster
Posts: 259
Joined: 15 November 2005
Year and Model:
Location: Hendersonville, NC

Post by wojeepster »

The early ones suffered from too small of an oil return hole. Folks who didn't change their oil frequently had this hole clog up and engine destroyed from lack of oil. I heard volvo was very good about replacing these. I think the v6 was a joint effort with pequot or renault other than this meager amount i know nothing about them.

johng
Posts: 4
Joined: 5 February 2006
Year and Model:
Location:

Post by johng »

oldmopars wrote:I'm looking at two different 760's to purchase. I can't seem to find any info on the reliability of the V6 2.8 engine. Is this a reliable engine compared to the inline 4? Any help and all opinions are appreciated.

Thanks,
R. Drake
There is no comparison whatsoever. The inline four is one of the all time greats while the frech/italian v-6 is one of the biggest pieces of junk ever. In addition to the oiling issues which manifests itself in cam failures the cooling system is prone to failure. The reason you can't find reliability info on the V-6 is because it isn't. Run away or be prepared to retro fit a four cylinder later. Call a few salvage yards and try to find a 'good used' V-6. You'll give the wrecking yard guy a good belly laugh.
John..

oldmopars
Posts: 11
Joined: 29 December 2005
Year and Model:
Location: Burlington, NC

Post by oldmopars »

Thanks Johng,
I went and looked at the v6 and have already decided it wasn't for me.
There is no room for working on the engine and it is poorly designed.
After driving it, I really believe the inline four has a better power range.
The v6 had more low end but was a loud dog on the interstate. The inline four was not going to win any red light races but was very comphy and quiet on the interstate at 85mph. It also has enough room under the hood that I can climb in and work on it if needed. That by itself was enough to sell me. Thanks much for your input and advice.

R. Drake
luv the smell of high compression V8's at the line

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