Volvo 240 still rings bells in the minds of many motor enthusiasts because of its unbeatable durability. Being famous and most selling vehicle of the Volvo family, the model has interacted with many celebrities including actress and model, Sasha Grey. The mid-sized station wagon car ceased production in 1993 and was one of the most practical family cars considering carrying capacity. Volvo 240 received a code name “hard-to-kill” because of its enormous strength and engine sturdiness. Some of the 240’s are still in mint condition to date as maintained by Volvo enthusiast.
Well-maintained Volvo 240 station wagons have recorded breathtaking 500,000 miles; and are still going strong on the roads without smoke on their tailpipes. The “box” like body styling distinguishes every Volvo from other station wagon cars. Expanded jaw up front as a result of large bumpers, the appearance of the Volvo was not pleasing to many. The Swedish manufacturer downplayed critics by stating safety reasons in preference of aesthetics. The 240 towed wagons without breaking a sweat. Equipped with 2000cc engines, 240 station wagons set world standards as a safe and environmentally friendly family car in the late 70’s and 80’s.
With many variants such as the 242L, 242DL, 245L and 242GT, Volvo fans had the option of choosing a model that suited their needs from the family range. The most sought after is the 242GT, which had credible handling characteristics, a powerful naturally aspirated engine and performance oriented power steering. A turbo charged model of the 242GT was added in the line-up after successful sale of the naturally aspirated variant. Turbo charged 242GT quickly earned the title as the world’s quickest station wagon, a feature that that saw it win European Touring Car Championship.
The interior of the Volvo 240 is not what one could judge as cozy but Volvo did the trick by including wood dash accents. This was only common to luxurious cars such as Mercedes Benz S series. It is undeniable that the 240 series was Volvo’s icon and the world is poorer without it. Volvo 240 is a cult car for most of the baby boomers generation.
Because of its practicality and faithfulness, the 240 has won the heart of many. Enthusiasts have established dedicated clubs worldwide that work to secure the future of the 240 as the 240 secured the future of many during its reign. Volvo built the short-wheel base version in the late 1993 to symbolize the short lead-times.