Hi guys + gals New to the site and looking for some advice. I'm looking to buy an estate and I've got a limited budget, haven't we all? I've seen two 740 2.3 GLE 88 and 89 close too me that seem to fit the bill. Can anyone advise me on the pros and cons of these models please.
Tough, long lasting, cheap and not pretty. But enough about me.
I'm guessing by your use of the word 'estate' that you are UK based. If so, 1,000 ukp will get you one in top condition; 500 ukp is common for a decent one.
You won't get one that is completely fault free at that age, but make sure that the engine is not making any untoward knocking noises (a little valve clatter is OK), and that it doesn't smoke from the exhaust under any throttle conditions. Have a look in the coolant header - you don't want to see any scummy oil floating on the top of the water. If it's an automatic, pull the gearbox dipstick - the oil should be red; if it is brown, or smells burnt, the gearbox is almost certainly near death. Make sure the transmission isn't audibly whining (except in reverse).
With care (especially regular oil changes) the engines will last a very long time. 200k is usual, and 500k not infrequent, though the transmission may not be able to match the latter. Camshaft timing belt needs repalcing every 50k miles, and it would be a good plan to change this, along with its tensioner, and do an oil, filters and plugs change as soon as you get the car. Have a look at the brake pads and disks, too.
UK spec'ed cars of this age are mechanically simple, without any engine management computers or exhaust catalysts. They use Bosch K-Jetronic fuel injection, which is a mechnical system and very durable, though not without its quirks.
The 700 series is not as prone to rust as the 200 series, but mine has suffered a little under the load area. Climb underneath and have a good poke around. Rear springs can get a little weak with age, but it is not a major job to replace them.
Volvo spares can be expensive, but in the UK there are a couple of specialist aftermarket suppliers (Eurocar Parts and German Swedish & French) who have many counter outlets and do mail order as well. Get hold of their catalogues.
Load carrying capacity is superb, comfort is good, economy is not brilliant (+/- 23 mpg), but they are a fairly easy conversion to LPG if you are interested.
There are plenty of these cars around at that age, so if you are not sure of anything, leave it and find another one.
It's your lucky day, I've just bought an 850 and have a 740 for sale at a negotiable price if you're interested. I don't want to get rid but it's all extra expense. It's a 2 litre 1988 estate. Looks nice and drives well. Beware the volvo v engines, this one's a straight 4 fuel injected.It's in good condition and been well maintained. If you want to speak further, please let me know.
These are for the most part solid, dependable cars. I don't know if they were offered with the ZF transmission, but I would advise you avoid that. It can be identified by having P-N-1-2-3-D and no OD lockout button on the side of the shifter. The AW-70 and 71 are much more robust and abuse tolerant.
They were. I've heard the stories, but mine has been 100% dependable with no special attention. But it only has 170k miles on it.
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