240 vs 850: if you could only keep one, which would it be?

SUNRG · Post by **SUNRG** » 09 Jan 2015, 19:38

I may need to sell one of my beloved wagons. Each has its virtues and vices. Both are presently in great condition. Please comment with your vote & thoughts. Thank you!

1. 1995 Volvo 850 Turbo Wagon

2. 1993 Volvo 240 Wagon

lummert · Post by **lummert** » 09 Jan 2015, 19:45

The 240 wagon will cost less to keep.

SUNRG · Post by **SUNRG** » 09 Jan 2015, 22:20

lummert wrote:The 240 wagon will cost less to keep.

My experience reflects this - cost of ownership of the 240 is the lowest of any car I've ever owned. And, since the reason I may need to let one go is financial, CoO is a strong consideration. Thanks for the reply lummert!

93Regina · Post by **93Regina** » 10 Jan 2015, 06:24

SUNRG wrote:1. 1995 Volvo 850 Turbo Wagon

I like its cosmetics (aka appearance), but it seems head-gaskets and electronic transmissions are a real issue with these (and others) newer vehicles.

Redblocks have HG issue with time, but I don't consider it a PIA to do. 240s AW70s can be rebuilt by DIYer with skills, for several hundred bucks...rebuilt electronic transmissions will be a serious repair bill...last one I heard was around 4 grand.

On a different note, I know of other vehicles in good shape that were junked, due to cost of repairing electronic transmission.

Hence, one needs to know any vehicle's mechanical shape and cost of future repairs, and decide. Drivers who drive their vehicles with aggressive pedal (brake/accelerator) action will visit the repair shops sooner, or later.

AlaskanPrincess · Post by **AlaskanPrincess** » 11 Jan 2015, 13:05

Based solely on model - no other info (mileage, condition, repair/maintenance history...) hmmmm, I'd opt to keep the 240. I am partial to Volvo's that were still made by Volvo (pre-Ford), and actually prefer the boxy style of the 240's. Given even my limited knowledge, I'm a fan of RWD versus FWD. (Ah, when I think of all the $$$ I spent replacing CV joints and boots....[sigh]) But - your vehicles are both just gorgeous - in looking at them I can see why It would be a struggle to choose! Please let us know what you decide!

SUNRG · Post by **SUNRG** » 11 Jan 2015, 22:11

Thanks everyone for all the great feedback!

The head on the 850 was reconditioned less than 1000 miles ago, so the head gasket should be good for a long time, BUT, that was a $1500 repair. Both transmissions have been very thoroughly flushed by me and seem to be functioning great. Also, I ecodrive 95% of the time to optimize fuel economy and minimize wear and repair/maintenance costs ... so both vehicles "should" be reasonable to maintain, but the recent 850 burnt valves / head reconditioning blew that out of the water.

I really appreciate everyone's input, this decision is still in the air so if anyone has anything more / further to share - please do!

93Regina wrote:
SUNRG wrote:1. 1995 Volvo 850 Turbo Wagon
I like its cosmetics (aka appearance), but it seems head-gaskets and electronic transmissions are a real issue with these (and others) newer vehicles.

Redblocks have HG issue with time, but I don't consider it a PIA to do. 240s AW70s can be rebuilt by DIYer with skills, for several hundred bucks...rebuilt electronic transmissions will be a serious repair bill...last one I heard was around 4 grand.

On a different note, I know of other vehicles in good shape that were junked, due to cost of repairing electronic transmission.

Hence, one needs to know any vehicle's mechanical shape and cost of future repairs, and decide. Drivers who drive their vehicles with aggressive pedal (brake/accelerator) action will visit the repair shops sooner, or later.

daveyboy8 · Post by **daveyboy8** » 12 Jan 2015, 04:08

personally i like the 240s. easy enough car to work on, have not had to many issues getting parts and pretty darn bulletproof vehicles. my 93 has 204000 miles on it and has been a champ(drove it through tough michigan winter last year w/o problems-even good for rear wheel drive-excellent heater also!)

daveyboy8 · Post by **daveyboy8** » 12 Jan 2015, 04:19

btw-both of your cars are beautiful-i also see your dilemma. ive had four 240s in my life and still my favorite of the volvos-my daily is a 2000 v70xc presently-a nice driving car but the 240 is a fun ride and has been a pretty solid performer-no speed demon but im not hard on the gas pedal anyway.

Post by **rgk** » 14 Jan 2015, 11:29

Just take a look at junkyards and Craigslist to see how many people are trying to get rid of their 850s...

Post by **mtd240** » 16 Jan 2015, 06:01

If you don't want your 240 I'll buy it