1986 Volvo 740 User Reviews

Volvo Ist Goot. Ya. — This was the first car that my wife and I owned as a married couple. She drove it most of the time, but I did my fair share of time behind the wheel. Having already owned a Volve 242 prior to owning this car, I was already sold on Volvo reliability, dependability, and no-nonsense engineering. Of course, the 740 had all of those things, but then added something more...luxury. But it was luxury Scandanavian style. In other words, the 242 was kinda like an Ikea store. Everything in it was quite simple, functional, and overall a pretty good deal for the money. If perhaps a little spartan. But the 740 was more like a Scan Design store. It still communicated a functional simplicity, but in a way that pampered its occupants instead of just sustaining them. It had incredibly comfortable heated leather seats. Instead of the hard plastic found in the 242, the dash of the 740 was covered in a softer but no less durable stuff that upped the overall ambiance. And although it looks somewhat dated today, the overall shape of the car was downright modern in the early 1980's and, in my opinion, made similar offerings from BMW and Mercedes look downright flabby. The design was taut and angular, just like a proper Scandanavian machine should be. The interior was very roomy and comfortable, and the controls and dash were laid out logically and without pretense. The ride was not sporting, but nor was it mushy...just right for a European saloon. Interior noise was minimal, even at highway speeds, despite all the angles. After several years, we ended up giving the car to my wife's grandmother, when it had over 230,000 miles on it. And the car was just as solid as it was when we bought it--no creaks or rattles. That was over ten years ago, and the car is still going strong. The 740 Series allowed Volvo to take their reputation for quality and safety upmarket and eventually became the go-to marque for well-heeled, sophisticated folks who appreciated European quality and style, but wanted none of the pretentious excess found in Mercedes or Jaguar. Sadly, during the time that Volvo walked under parent Ford's umbrella, Volvos seem to have lost their 'Volvo-ness'. Quality has suffered, although it seems to have improved recently, and the cars have crossed the line from simple-chic to just plain bland in many consumers' minds. Pity. I hope that once Ford finds a buyer for Volvo, that those folks in Gothenburg can rediscover their Volvo-ness.

Primary Use: Family transportation

Durable Workhorse — I bought my 740GLE brand new in late 1985. At the time of writing it has 449,000 miles on the original engine and original transmission and drivetrain. Over the years it has averaged about 26-27 mpg everyday driving and 31 freeway. I fitted front and rear stabilizer bars, a chassis brace and stiffer shocks. It handles like a race car even though it doesn't accelerate like one. The seats are still as comfortable today as when new. The engine is still smooth and quiet and frankly I don't think any manufacturer will make a car like this again. It is simply unbelievable. I will be very sorry to part with it one day.

Primary Use: Family transportation

Reliable Engine — Great seats, turning circle and visibility. rust will kill it some day. Reliable engine and starting in all weather.

1986 Volvo — This little car was bought in a non- running condition. We put the car running in less than one day. We have not since had to make any more repairs to this vehicle. The car has proved out to be quite a good value.

Primary Use: Family transportation

Fun And Practical — The turbo gave it OK power, but the handling and brakes could be beefed up. But then again, its a wagon, so the performance it had was pretty good.