1991 Volvo 240 Reviews, Pricing & Specs

I purchased my '91 240 as a commuter and winter car. For what you pay, it drives better than many newer vehicles and has some features (like seat warmers, rear floor air vents, air conditioning, lumbar support adjustment and seat tilt, driver airbag, full size spare tire) that twenty years later aren't all standard. The handling is good for such a large car, and disk brakes all around with four piston calipers in the front bring the car to a halt quicker than your average large 90s sedan. Of course Volvo is known for their safety reputation, and from '86-'91 nobody in the United States died in a Volvo 240. The interior is comfortable and commodious if you aren't of a very large frame. I am 6'2" and 230 and I found the driver's seat slightly cramped at first but have gotten used to it. Being that it is old you will likely have to put parts and labor into a used example, but it is very easy to work on and even amateur home mechanics can keep one on the road. I have replaced many parts on mine myself, and I've only had struts done by a shop. Watch for rust in structural areas when you check one out. Volvo galvanized much of the car, and rustproofing in general is sufficient, but high mileage or well used examples may have rust creeping up. Mechanically these cars last forever if not neglected, so maintenance is usually the largest cost of ownership beyond fuel. I am a college student, but this would be a great car (in fact, ideal) for a small family. I would certainly feel safe driving any of my loved ones in it.Nov 22, 2011