80 240 What Should I Look For

[rmmagow]

I'm going to start looking for an older "red-block" car, RWD. I don't know much about the older models but have been able to care for my 98 V70 at 225,000 miles without much issue.
I'm going to look for a manual transmission, low rust decent shape older Volvo. I am looking primarily for a good solid reliable neat looking old platform. Of the 240, 740, 760, 940, 960 is there any of these lines to avoid? I will probably want to stick to the "4" versions and wagon but that's not too important. The shift it yourself is one of the primary requirements.
These are fairly easy to maintain right? Good parts availability? Carb or FI ?

[stephansvolvo]

What I know is I have owned an 84 240 and an 89 240. I loved them both. Had to sell the 84 prior to leaving CA and the 89 I drove from CA to CO. Both AT and both GL. MT would be fun, I like the shift it yourself. My next one will be the V70R

[93Regina]

240, 740, 760, 940, 960

1989 and later may be a better way to go. They all have a CPS (crank position sensor), which means if needed, one could MegaSquirt engine. I've heard of ECUs failing, but none of mine have failed yet.

Stick shift...naw....AW71L transmission is my favorite.

I prefer Rex-I/Regina over LH 2.4 system. With a set of Bosch 0 280 155 746 Injectors, and a working O2 sensor, better fuel mileage is possible if driver is conservation minded on throttle. Recently, I took a 271 mile trip with hwy and city miles combined; 28.5 mpg.

I'd stay away from a K-Jet system unless one is mechanical inclined, and resourceful.

Always check for rust, rust, and rust underneath; these are uni-body vehicles, and if suspension points are rusted, that's a lemon.