Should I buy this car with blown motor ??

jdmack · Post by **jdmack** » 22 Jan 2013, 09:45

Hello, I have a possible line on a 1998 S70 turbo with 240,000 mi on the clock. I talked to the owner on the phone and the car is a good condition except for the fact the motor is shot. He was driving the car when it suddenly stopped(I don't have all the details). He had it towed to an auto shop and had it inspected and they told him the motor will not turnover, so I assume that the timing belt snapped. I can get it for $500 cash. I am interested in any thoughts on buying this and fixing it up with my teenage son. Would it be cost affective after I put a used motor in?? or do I save myself the hassle and look for something running?? all work wold be performed by me so all I will pay for is parts. Any input would be greatly appreciated. Thanks. John

Post by **JDS60R** » 22 Jan 2013, 10:10

It might be useful as a parts car. With $500 plus an engine ($700 and up) I think you could find better for less and in running condition.

Post by **vjaneczko** » 22 Jan 2013, 10:55

If the engine won't turnover, then maybe the starter is toast or the engine has seized. If it cranks but won't catch, I'd review the Stage 0 checklist. Either way, if you're looking for a project to bond with your son, this might be a good one regardless if you get the car back on the road. If you need something to get on the road fast, I'd inspect the heck out of the car to know what you'd be getting into. I don't know about you but auto repairs + cold weather = me cranky!

A few weeks ago I bought a running '96 855 as a parts car near Kenosha for $1,400. It leaked antifreeze and only ran in 2nd gear. Since I'm pulling the sheet metal off of it (and anything on the inside that's nicer than mine) I don't care about the two codes the trans is throwing, the spark plug cover bolts are seized in place or the eight other codes. If you want another Volvo, I'd guess this price range would be the low-end of what you'd be able to find in semi-running condition.

Post by **wheelsup** » 22 Jan 2013, 12:14

Personally I think it's too much $$. Maybe for $200-$300 as a parts car. You have no idea the condition of the transmission which is probably on its way out as well. I paid $250 for an 850 w/ 155k that had a blown motor 2 years ago or so. Stripped it down and sold the carcass to the scrappers for $100. Got a transmission and an almost brand new radiator along with all the sensors and relays and such off of it.

You'd be better served buying a running car in better condition than trying to "fix up" a beater to begin with IMO.

It makes sense if the car is maybe 5 years old, there is probably equity in there, but certainly not a 15 year old car.

Post by **jblackburn** » 22 Jan 2013, 12:47

If the rest is in good shape, it might be worth $300 max. But at 240,000, there's bound to be other stuff that needs attention as well.

jdmack · Post by **jdmack** » 22 Jan 2013, 15:32

Thank you all for your input. After reading the replies and thinking it over today, it looks like I am going to pass this one up. At first I thought it was a rocket deal and something I could get back on the road for a reasonable amount of cash. After thinking about the time and hassle of either repairing or replacing the motor it might not be such a great deal after all. thanks again for your help. John