Back in 1974, the production of Volvo 240 cars began. These models were positioned as practical, safe and roomy cars. In those days, such cars were popular, so the novelty of the Swedish concern quickly found its customers.
Briefly about the model
The first feature of the Volvo 240 is a solid safety cage, which the developers decided to integrate directly into the body. It was intended to ensure the strength and durability of the overall design of the car.
The second feature of the novelty of the 70s was the increased capacity, which was envy even for owners of compact cars. The luggage compartment volume of a sedan, for example, is 615 liters. In wagons, of course, he was larger and reached 1200 liters. But it was possible to lay out the seats, which increased the already huge cargo compartment to 2150 liters. It was spaciousness and safety that approved the Volvo 240 as one of the most popular family cars of the 70-80s.
Diesel estate
This was the name of one of the most popular modifications of the Volvo 240. Under the hood of these models was installed a 2.4-liter diesel engine with indirect fuel injection, producing 82 hp. It functioned under the control of a 5-speed “mechanics”. An independent MacPherson strut was mounted on the front, and a spring-loaded structure was on the back. There were no ABS, EBD systems or braking assistants, but disc and ventilated brakes were installed.
The speed limit for this car was limited to 155 km / h, and this was a good indicator in those days. Acceleration to 100 km / h took about 17.5 seconds, and the consumption was about 7.9 liters of diesel fuel in the combined cycle. By the way, the price of such a car reached 22,800. e. It was a rather big amount, but people were ready to pay for such characteristics and other advantages, which were mentioned above.
The most powerful versions
Volvo 240 had pretty good specifications, especially with later versions. The most powerful modification was a model with a 2.1-liter 155-horsepower unit equipped with a turbocharger and distributed fuel injection. This engine was controlled by a 4-speed "mechanics". Versions with such an engine under the hood could accelerate to a maximum of 180 km / h, and acceleration to "hundreds" took only 11 seconds. The engine consumed, by the way, about 10 liters in the combined cycle. It is also interesting that the most powerful models were equipped with power steering.
A slightly weaker modification was with the 2.3-liter 140-horsepower engine, offered with a 3-speed “automatic”. There were other units. In addition to the three above, there were 10 more engines with different volumes and power. The developers supplemented them with the lineup in the course of production development.
Advantages and disadvantages
It is interesting that in our time there are people who drive a Volvo 240. And a few owners share their opinions regarding this model. This car, despite its old-fashionedness, has a very convenient and comfortable interior. Also, many note the attention to excellent visibility from the driver's seat. The car also has a high-quality heater, thanks to which, even in the coldest winters, inside is not just warm, but hot.
The passive safety of this car, even by modern standards, is not bad. Maintainability is high, so that the car can be maintained in good condition without any problems. And the model also has a small turning radius, despite its almost 5-meter length. And finally, the Volvo 240 is completely not interested in hijackers. And this nuance is also usually attributed to the pluses.
As for the minuses, the overestimated fuel consumption can be considered a negative point. But this is not surprising - the age of the engine affects. Even when driving at a speed of more than 120 km / h, a longitudinal buildup is noticeable, and during cornering, a roll is observed. But overall this is a good, solid car of high-quality assembly.
Exploitation
I would like to pay a little more attention to this topic. People who own the Volvo 240 claim that this car, with timely and proper service, will never let you down. Manageability is at a decent level. Despite the fact that the car has a solid dimensions, it is characterized by maneuverability, which helps out in the city stream and when parking. Of no small importance in this regard is the engine. Volvo 240 is good with any unit under the hood, since all of them are very high-torque, reliable and durable. With proper care, they nursed up to a million kilometers.
But, of course, some difficulties are encountered in the operation process. Since the cars are age-related, problems arise when starting motors in frost below -10 ° C. We have to wait a long time until the engine warms up and picks up speed. If the previous owner poorly looked after the car, then the unit will work jerky. In the case of this car, repair work cannot be completely avoided. Old cars are subject to corrosion, and ICE requires increased attention. But then the Volvo models have indestructible electrical equipment and wiring. And their durability once again confirms the decent build quality.
Van
It is worth noting that under the name Volvo 240 is known not only an “adult” passenger car, but also a modern 12-ton truck with a load capacity of 6 tons. However, there is a difference in the name, and it consists in the prefix. Trucks are known as the Volvo FL-240.
This car is aggregated with a 240-horsepower 7.1-liter engine. The truck "Volvo 240" characteristics are impressive. It is equipped with air suspension, disc brakes with ESP, ASR and ABS, fog lights. Inside there is a tachograph, sunroof, CD-radio, cruise control, full power accessories, an excellent driver's heated seat, heater, on-board computer, air conditioning and, of course, the cabin is equipped with a comfortable berth.
Despite the identical names, these two cars differ dramatically. But still they have something in common. The feature that unites them is their undoubted quality. However, all Volvo cars are characterized by this feature. It is thanks to her that the cars of the Swedish concern are so popular.