[dagnelson]

What's your opinion on the 850 compared to the 240?

Except for it being more car and the 240 being kinda basic, how does it hold up in regards to reliability, longevity, maintenance?

I am looking for a 91-93 245 but noticed that the 95-97 850s have dropped into my price range, and they are quite nice.

 

[Stormin Norman]

Re: 850 vs. 240 (dagnelson)

As far as reliability and stuff, I rate them about the same. Both have the annoying problems native to Volvos, both have really solid motors and construction.

The 240s are somewhat less vulnerable, as they were built at the end of a build cycle of more than 20 years. But it is an old car and drives like one. 850s have newer design flaws. The really critical factor is the previous matainence.

If the 850 didn't get the tranny fluid flushed, trannys may fail. If the car was run without a pollen filter, AC can be a problem. The OEM sway bar links are just crap, but better ones are available.

Good luck.

Even with the known problems, I still think the 850 is a helluva car.

 

[doug242ti]

Re: 850 vs. 240 (Stormin Norman)

Quote, originally posted by Stormin Norman »

As far as reliability and stuff, I rate them about the same. Both have the annoying problems native to Volvos, both have really solid motors and construction. The 240s are somewhat less vulnerable, as they were built at the end of a build cycle of more than 20 years. But it is an old car and drives like one. 850s have newer design flaws. The really critical factor is the previous matainence. If the 850 didn't get the tranny fluid flushed, trannys may fail. If the car was run without a pollen filter, AC can be a problem. The OEM sway bar links are just crap, but better ones are available. Good luck. Even with the known problems, I still think the 850 is a helluva car.

couldn't have said it better myself. Atleast 850's dont have the self destructing wiring harness' that 240's have.