I want an 1980s Volvo DL so bad. I have been pouring over Craigslist. I'm in Atlanta, and it is hard to find one. I see the KBV even in excellent (for a 1991, which is as far back as the site goes) to be no more than 1800 in excellent. So many folks around here sell them for over 2500 if not more. Is it harder to get them down here, which is why they are more expensive?? I tell you, since I've been looking, I see them everywhere. What is too much for one. I just spoke to someone about a nice looking 1982 DL Coupe for 3000. Seems way too much, especially as it is not the original engine, odometers not working, and the AC isn't fixed.

anyone?

 

Take a trip to the west coast... $2k should buy a decent rustfree 240... As far as Book Value, cars that are 20+ years old really have no reliable book value-it's all up to the condition and the market, like listings on the Craiglist...

 

Two grand is too much for me, especially since I picked mine up for a grand in Ohio, rust free! KBB is a joke for older cars like lev said. So all of them you see are over 2,000? Or do you just see a lot of 240's? Put some offers in their windshields if you are desperate. Never know, or you might anger someone.
Just be careful, don't rush into a 240. Some are gem's but mostly they will need a lot of work, like the one you described. Sometime's people enjoy 240's (not die hard fans) and do some research on them, realize the engine's last forever, and jack up their asking price way high thinking engine endurance makes up for all the other problems that need to be addressed.
I'm sure you'll run across a good one, for the right price. Heck, maybe you can get one for $50 like a good o'l member on here, or better yet, for free! (It happens; too much I think.)

 

My advice....

Bide your time. Wanting one that bad will lead you to end up buying a project you don't want, or you'll end up paying too much for one.

I sat for 4 weeks waiting for the next " right " volvo to come along. Found a well taken care of 93 945 for $1500.00.

I'm glad I did wait. The others that I looked at were newer and more expensive BUT not nearly the quality of the car I ended up finding.

Patience is the name of the game....