I'm looking for a Volvo Wagon.

If I get one with a turbo what are the advantages and dis-advantages?


What are the MPG's like with one vs the other?

Are there certain models that have the turbo and others that don't?


Right now I'm thinking 240 Wagon or 740 Wagon.

 

The turbo gives more oomph, but it is another mechanical system that you may have to work on if it goes bad. So far, the turbo on my 1987 740 is holding firm (cross my fingers). I don't get bad mileage on it. I think we once got 30 mpg on the freeway, but that was a long time ago and I'm not sure if my recollection is correct.

I was told by a professional mechanic that I have an oil leak from the turbo, but it's not critical yet. Another professional mechanic told me that they are a bitch to work on. Others here may have more info to offer, as I have not worked on the turbo yet.

My wife has a 940 nonturbo automatic and you can really tell the difference when going up hills. Part of the problem, though, may be the fact that she doesn't press on the accelerator enough when approaching the hill.

Both the 240s and 740s have turbos.

 

The 200/700 are pretty freakin cheap to maintain/ fix that I would say just go for a turbo model. The extra power, capabilities for more, out way an NA model....IMO. I am sure with a light foot, you would get the same MPGs as the NA, maybe a little less. I think the 700 would be easier to work on, for it has more room in the engine bay, plus the hood opens 90*! The 200 series is a little tighter, but it has all most the same. If you do have a turbo problem....just look in the forsale section of turbobricks.com and you can find a replacement turbo in good condition for ~$100.

lets say you buy one ~$2000, and turns out you dont like it....Just sell it for ~$2000, and try a different one.

 

I drive a 94 940 turbo wagon with an automatic. I also own a 99 Eclipse GS-T with a 5 speed. The wagon will keep up with the Eclipse on the highway, and still get 27-30 mpg. If given the choice between turbo and non-turbo, definitely pick the turbo model. You will thank yourself.

 

You REALLY get 30mpg out of a 945T? You are sure? You have actually measured it? With numbers in a calculator and such? Not downhill? Wow!

 

I am averaging 10-11l/100km with my 745T. That includes mainly city driving. It doesn't change much on teh highway.
My car is mildly modified though, so I have a fair bit more midrange torque to help with economy.
I say buy a turbo. The turbo itself is cheap to have reconditioned and is the only dedicated turbo specific thing that'll fail compared to otehr regular failures.
The turbo 2/7 series Volvos are pretty well laid out. The really hot turbo is well hidden down by the inner fender and you dont get many issues with radiant heat affecting things.
Mine has 260k kms on it and is loving 15psi in total reliability.
Considering teh turbo WIL reward you with real gains if you ever even mildly modify anything, it's the way to go. Very mild mods turn the turbos from "hmmm, not bad" to "wow, pretty impressive". My wagon with about $800 worth of mods is now comfortably eating large six cylinder vehicles for breakfast and STILL using less fuel.
EDIT: Another bonus with a turbo model is a much higher trim level inside the car. You'll probably have climate control, leather, ABS etc. I can't speak for US models, but Aus/Euro spec turbos also got teh sub floor cross braces and bigger sway bar.

Regards, Andrew.