Hi everyone, names William. I am new to Volvos, I am looking to replace my 1992 Pontiac Bonneville SSEi simply because it is a gas hog. 98% of my driving is city driving, and with my driving style, I only get about 13-14MPG, which is killing me because I drive A LOT. In normal driving, it does get about 15-16 city, but that still dissatisfies me.

So, I have narrowed my choices down to the '90+ 240, 740, and 940. I WAS looking at the 850s, but my friend from school told me about the timing belt replacement being a nightmare compared to the redblock SOHC, of the timing belt snaps, bye bye motor, possible HG failures, electrical problems and turbo problems scared me away from them, unless of course he don't know what he's talking about. Any of that true?

I'd love to have as much info as possible before committing to buy one. I do hear the best choice is the 2.3 SOHC B230 because they are a great motor, slow, but extremely durable. I'm not really looking for performance anymore, but I wouldn't mind a turbo because they are most likely better on gas than my Supercharged 3800. So if you guys could help me out, I'd love that. My spending cap is $2500, and mileage cap is 140,000. Thanks!

-William

 

Well the timing belt isn't all that bad. Check around the site.

The 850's aren't that bad overall either. He might have a lemon or something.

Yes true if the belt breaks bent valves.

But my one car has about 230K on it and original turbo.
The other one has 111K original turbo.

Just search around the forum some and see what you can find out about all the models.

BTW Welcome

 

Welcome. 850 is a nice car. And the 240/740/940 aren't "slow". Buy a $50 MBC @ 11psiand bam, it is apretty quick brick.

 

Any of the cars you mentioned would be fine. Don't overlook the 850's either.