3 weeks ago I bought a 1989 Volvo 240 DL with 143k miles for $3,900.00 after TTL. It has a new paint job and it is extremely clean inside and out. No wrecks on the car report. But all of the sudden- the gas pump went out, the water pump was leaking, and the transmission seals were leaking. So 3 weeks later I spent $730.00 to get it all fixed(I have a family member who owns volvo mechanic shop so I got a good discount). But I am getting really scared. This is my main car for work and everything. Did I make a mistake in buying such an old car for so much money? Did I make a mistake buy this car as my everyday car? Is it going to be brakeing down alot?

 

Well, it's hard to make such predictions as far as any car's future but this is a car, (the 240) that's generally quite reliable. The price you paid is on the high side, but as far as the repairs, they are pretty much maintenance items which are expected to be done at certain intervals. So, unless this is a "lemon", one of those cars that are always down, you should be OK....

 

In my area, suggested retail price for an '89 DL sedan in excellent condition is $2,790 according to Kelly Blue Book. Excellent condition means no re-painting or other body work -- original. So it partly depends on your geographical area.

For that price I don't particularly like that it's been re-painted. But what the hey, a deal is a deal. It should be OK. As tedv says they're reliable.