still looking to purchase a volvo. kinda want to stick with the 40 series. which leads me to this question. which of the 40 series is the most trouble free? Im a pretty good wrench and can do most maintenance. I have checked out a few 240's and was quite impress with the simplicity. i seen one 940 (92 model) and it seems like it looks the same set up. the styling of the 740 and 940 series looks a bit more modern. but i really want the substance. any input appreciated

 

The 240 was by far the best and most trouble Free one out there.

 

I've owned several 240s: a '92, an '86, a '79, and currently a '90. However, my son's '83 wagon, w/manual tranny, is IMHO the best of the lot. The build quality is superb, and the motor, at 240K, has a wonderful "sewing machine" sound to it that is different, at least to my ears,than the later years.

 

is standard or auto tranny more reliable?

 

Manual but they all leak.

 

Stick with the 240's. Bullet-proof system and easy to wrench on. I've had great luck with them.

 

940 is best, as it is the last of the rear drive with the 4 cyl. So it has all the modern upgrades such as airbags, ABS, much more comfortable interior and looks that are contemporary.

 

Yeh I like the looks of the 940 too ,

but the 240 has the advantage of simplicity when fixit time comes.
They all wear out but the newer cars aren't as simple ,
parts are more available for the 240 and cheaper.

 

Ive owned a 940 turbo wagon for at least 10 years now and it is by far the most durable volvo, and car in general, i have ever seen. So I would choose between the simplisitic 240 or a 940 depending on which you likemore.

 

I don't get the often mentioned mechanical distinctions between the 240, 740, 940. THEREARE VERY FEW!!!! i.e. look at this forum! The later cars, 940/740have ABS, SRS, etc.. Things that are well worth having, and bring very little extra problems. On the bad side of those loved 240's, earlier fuel injections are crap, they ride worse due to their shorter wheel base, and ergonomics are bad.

 

I'll take ANY volvo over all my previous American cars.