Trying to figure out if this could be a good fit for me. The ad says:
1993 Volvo 240 wagon. new rear shocks, spark plugs, wires, cap, rotor, oil change, transmission fluid & filter. Comes with new glass headlights and side markers not installed. Car run drives and shifts great, cleans up nice for the year. Comes with 3 ring binder full of service records.

Have not gone to see it yet & go through the records. The woman says that the timing belt does need to be done soon. Says it's in great shape rust-wise (I'm in Maine) & has no known issues. I really need a Volvo wagon & just checking out any in my price range? area.

Could this be a good investment? I can do some maintenance on this myself to an extent.



These things are "legendary", right? Thanks for insights!

 

It's a nice looking car with 740 wheels on it - at least from far.

A 240 Volvo will never be a good "investment". If you have never owned a European car you will be surprised at the $$$ it takes to keep it running. Even more to keep it nice.

That car is also 30 years old - anything and everything could easily be worn out, have been replaced when it wore out, or will need to be replaced soon. The engine (if maintained) and differential are probably the least likely things to fail. Everything else - trans, driveshaft, all suspension bushings, ac hard parts, heater fan motor. Brakes, calipers, brake hoses, master cylinder - does the northern car Emergency brake work? Then there's the 30 year old interior - seat foams, vinyl, 30 year old brittle plastic panels that are no longer produced/available. Many parts like inner door latch mechanisms, or central locking switches (wires are moved every time the drivers lock stick moves - and the wires break) - are no longer produced.

Those headlamps are yellowed (happens when the plastic gets old) - you won't be able to see much at night!

 

Really appreciate your message. Compiling a list of things to check off when looking through maintenance records & your input will be very helpful. I'm ready to take on what it means to own a European car- Tired of owning cars that have little to no rust protection & just crumble away. I have researched hot-dip galvanizaton & know that this car isn't the most protected at this stage in it's life but the pickings are slim in my area.
(Comes with new glass headlamps) Thanks again!

 

Those cars rust in the south - if it's been in the north for 30 years - there will be considerable rust. And there's no way to stop it.

What headlamps? Volvo only had headlamps with plastic lenses for that car in the north american market. Perhaps a European light assembly? Are you sure they are glass and will fit? If so the European lights take a different bulb, with a different plug. If purchasing - have the current owner install those before purchase.