Hello; I am currently looking at a 1986 240 Gl Wagon, 176,000 miles to replace my 1996 940. Having only owned one volvo wagon, I am in love with these wagons and cannot see myself driving anything else. So, I would like to know with the listed problems, if this 240 is worth restoring at a purchase price of $1,000 and rust-free.

Problems:
needs new radiator
needs new paint job (clear coat worn off on hood and roof)
seats need to be re-upholstered, as well as floor, rear trunk space and doors
both front headlights and one rear light needs replaced
potential a/c problem (I have come across a lot of mentions a/c malfunctions are notorious in these)

I would appreciate any feedback! thank you-

abelyear

 

Welcome
not a bad price...try and get it for less then a grand.

Radiator is pretty easy to fix, just can get messy. cost (~$160 for new one) also might want to replace the waterpump and hose.....
Paint....I would worry to much untill it is working mechanically. Cheap paint jobs ~$400.
Best way to do the interior is to go find a junk yard car or cars, with a good interior, and swap them. I just did my 745T from tan to black. I bought the interior off a guy who lives by me for $175.
Check here for lights: http://stores.channeladvisor.com/autolampsplus/Volvo/ they also have an ebay store, they are a pretty good company.
The AC problem is probably a blower motor issue. I hear it can be a pain in the butt to fix (it is in the center of the dash), and I need to replace the 244's. I would rather just rip mine out, for I never use it in the.

Wait for the experts to get on.....

 

I thought 1995 was the last year for the 940s? Did I read that right and you want to go back to 1986 for the replacement? If you're after the retro look then price isn't really a consideration. If you're looking for a dependable, comfortable ride, your 940 was as good as it gets in RWD. (IMHO)
as far as price, I just bought a 1995 940 NA with 93,000 miles in #2 condition for $2K and a parts car with about the same mileage for $200. 240s are 2/3 -1/2 that. The other up side is the 240s seem to have a lot more aftermarket replacement parts available and at better prices.

 

IMO, YES!... I love those Wagons. Once you get them brought back from the "dead" and you keep on the maintenance schedule, they are Super reliable and are cool as heck! The question should be, R u willing to put the money to make it reliable for a good car? I am actually trying to find one myself.... They do come with some work when you do find one.. Clean specimens usually go for top dollar (STILL) since they have a cult like following! I think they are cool as heck and want one as a daily driver and leave my 850 in the garage for the "weekeds",lol....Maybe if you don't want it let me know,lol... Just kidding. But in all honesty offer maybe a 7-800 and see if they take it. Either way, you have a potential cool and reliable car ahead of you... Good Luck! Keep us posted on what you end up doing!

 

I would say walk on. 1000 for a wagon that needs all that is pretty steep. Especially an 86 (that was the first year of some cosmetic changes to the car that I think made them look horrible) Now if you were to say an 83 to 85 turbo Wagon. Or like a later edition Polaris wagon. then yeah, go for it. But, a car is only as special as you deem it to be. For example I have a "special edition" 1983 242 TI from the factory with all the special order numbers. But, no one but me and a few other people actually find it special in any way.

 

Ahhh yes, you have a GroupA production car.... Sweet.