So what do you all think? Am I nuts, or does this look like it has promise? (Or both.)

I've been looking for a decent used car to replace my aging and increasingly decrepit Subie wagon (bought new, but time to retire it). The Volvo belongs to a colleague who just bought a new car for his family. They let me take it on a 375 mile test drive (small community; trust runs deep). It ran and drove beautifully-- I loved driving it. It has just the right amount of power to suit me. MPG isn't as good as my old Subie, but pretty good for such a heavy car.

Body looks good, interior is clean and in good shape, no serious wear though the leather could use conditioning. It has sheepskin on the front seats. Car has less than 139,000 miles, and has been well-maintained. I talked to the mechanic who took care of it, and the first words out of his mouth were "I wouldn't mind owning that car myself."

I am a little overwhelmed by all the bells and whistles and little bitty electrical motors that do everything. (My first car was a basic working pickup.) I'm ambivalent about the auto tranny, would prefer a manual, but the mechanic assures me that I'm unlikely to have problems with it. I was more reassured by the fact that he stockpiles good used trannies, and in worst case scenario, having to replace it would not be a catastrophic expense. The only concern is that the AC, which was charged last year, appears to have a small leak and needs recharging. It blows, but doesn't cool.

I have an appointment to have it checked out to make sure there aren't any unpleasant surprises lurking, and to have some minor issues looked at.

I welcome advice or suggestions (and warnings!) from you all. Your experience is my guide.

I should add that one of my daughters bought an old Volvo SW (I think a 240) years ago, put covers on the worn out seats, several years later painted it orange, and last year sent me a photo of 4 Volvos of various vintages owned by friends, all parked in front of her house. The orange one really stood out.

Neshobe

Once you go Volvo you never go back :)
If the car checks out at the garage go for it, I have a 89 740GL and the thing runs like a dream, even in -40C I don't even bother to plug in the block heater she starts right up.
Just Thursday I had to replace the alternator after it died on me on the road, but lets face it, it was the original part! These cars last long and ride smooth, take care of it and it will last you years.

You didn't say what year or model it was though :)

wwdragon

Well, duh, I sort of left that part out, didn't I? I'd put it in my "intro" post, guess I thought you guys were mind-readers. :blush:

Anyway, it is a 93 740 turbo-- I gather that year it was only available in the US packed with all the goodies. If it weren't a Volvo, that would put me off, but from everything I hear, even the bells and whistles last. Would love to hear from others with this model, though.

I have to admit that, at this point, your mission, should you take it on, would be to try to talk me OUT of finalizing the deal, assuming the inspection goes well. I sure do like the way it looks in my driveway, and feels to drive. I'm already falling. :thumbsup:

Neshobe

Hi,

Seeking a Volvo forum advice for NOT buying a volvo is kind of funny don't you think?
The only thing I can tell you is that the turbo models are less reliable (not unreliable!).
You say you love it, you buy from someone you know and trust, take a chance! this is not a life and death decision. You can always sell it.