Dear Forum members,

I have been the original and very proud owner of a numbered 1993 Volvo 245 "Classic" Wagon (Blue/Green with tan vinyl interior) for 16 years. But we've moved, retired, and the time has come to sell the car. My problem is that I cannot seem to find any indication of what would be a fair market value for the vehicle.

It has ~166K miles, with manual five speed transmission, and is in near perfect condition except for a seam split on the driver's seat bottom. Everything works., and Michelin tires were new last year. It has IPD upgrades including Koni shocks, K & N free flow permanent air filter, and performance exhaust. It has been maintained by a local Volvo mechanic out of Holland since new and coming off of warranty.

I have searched the web and been unable to find any comparable 245 for sale anywhere. Volvo dealers have been unable to help me, as they tell me they haven't had any to sell for years as trade-ins.

My mechanic feels its worth anywhere from $6K - $8K. I checked in Hemmings motor news, and they indicate values from $10K -$16K, the latter I assume being in Concours condition, which this car could be given detailing and a seat repair.

Can you or anyone in your club help me out here? I'd like to sell the car before winter sets in here in Eastern Washington. The car comes with an extra set of mounted studded snow tires, only two years old.

With appreciation for any advice that you or your club members may offer,

Sincerely,

Jim W

 

http://www.volvo-forums.com/t27727-v...ssic-wagon.htm

 

the best way to determine value is to test the market. You don't see these cars for sale because people hold on to them for as long as they can. Aim high, see what happens, then lower it if you can't sell it.

 

Clean, one-owner cars are very rare down here. I've bid on three 940 wagons this summer all under 80K miles that went for $4,500 up to $5K and those aren't as collectible.

I'd go with your mechanic estimates, sounds like he's done you right so far,

I also liked auto trader for maximum exposure. When I sold one of my 240s last year, I had buyers call from LA, Detroit and Ohio all ready to buy, fly in and drive back the car. (Important! take lots of good photos)

BTW: Since I had many buyers to pick from, I sold to a local kid whose Dad didn't get the whole Volvo thing but it was to be the kids first car. I was happy to be part of that memory.