The Amazing Volvo 240

The Volvo 240 was produced from 1974 to 1993.  It’s hard to nail down the exact number of Volvo 240 models have been made,  from what we’ve gathered nearly 3 million 240’s were manufactured and distributed around the world.  The primary production site for the Volvo 240 was in the Torslanda plant located in Gothenburg Sweden.  Volvo also produced the Volvo 240 in other locations that included Belgium and Canada.  It really depended on the model year and variant of 240 that determined which site it would be manufactured out of. 

It’s safe to say that the Volvo 240 is an amazing car for several reasons.  Many enthusiasts appreciate the fact Volvo didn’t change much over its 20 year run.  They all virtually feel exactly the same when driving one model to the next.  The Volvo 240 was offered in many different models.  We’re not going to go into all the exact nomenclature and model specific names, but Volvo gave their customers many options from a 240 being offered in a coupe version (2 door), 4 door version, and its practical wagon model.   You could get a 240 with the bare bone standard features such as power brakes, power steering, and a four speed manual transmission with overdrive.   Volvo also gave their clients the option to upgrade to a luxury model that included air conditioning, power windows, and power locks.  Volvo even offered a super enthusiast driven model that came turbocharged.  You could get a factory turbocharged model from 1981-1985.   If you were lucky enough, your country had some limited edition models like the GLT and SE.   These models had unique features and trim levels.  Overall, no matter what Volvo model was offered, they were all known for their safety, reliability, and practicality. 

Enthusiasts welcomed the variations of 240 models available and customized those cars to suit their own needs and preferences.  The 240 is known for its boxy shape that is instantly recognizable.  This look has always been extremely popular with enthusiasts and collectors.  One feature that is often overlooked is the Volvo 240 seats.  The supportive seats and quiet cabin makes for an amazing road car, especially on long trips.  The Volvo 240 was also known for having great brakes.  Volvo has always placed a strong emphasis on safety, and the 240 was no exception.  The 240 was equipped with a hydraulic braking system with four-wheel disc brakes which was advanced for its time.  This system provided amazing stopping power and a system that was easy to maintain and replace when needed.   Some models came equipped with vented brake rotors increasing performance and consistency when braking. 

We’ve mentioned several times that Volvo placed a strong emphasis on safety.  The Volvo 240 was one of the first cars to feature side-impact protection, crumple zones, and seatbelt pre-tensioners.  Some models also came with an anti-lock (ABS) and traction control which were advanced safety features for their time.  The Volvo 240 was one of the first cars to feature electronic fuel injection, which provided more precise fuel metering and improved fuel efficiency.  When introduced on early Volvo models, this was not yet common on most cars.  The Volvo 240 was one of the first cars to feature climate control or an automatic air conditioning system which would maintain a constant temperature in the vehicle.  Volvo also offered a high-quality sound system that featured an AM/FM radio cassette player and several speakers.  Enthusiasts have always appreciated the quality of their sound systems especially during long drives. 

The Volvo 240 really put wagons on the map!  You can’t beat the practicality of a Volvo wagon.  The 240 came with ample cargo space, roomy interior, and a versatile layout allowing anyone you to haul large cargo!  The Volvo 240 wagon became extremely popular with outdoor enthusiasts and families.   With the ability to haul camping gear or a bunch of kids to a soccer game, Volvo owners had confidence they were driving a car that was safe and reliable. 

The Volvo 240 is still one of IPD’s largest customer base.  The 240 helped catapult IPD’s product listings.  We sell thousands of parts for the 240 and developed hundreds of exclusive items.   It’s becoming more common that our customers are referring to a 240 as a vintage vehicle.  It’s hard to imagine a car that is robust and durable and has proven to stand the test of time is now a vintage vehicle.  Due to the amount of Volvo 240’s produced, there are still so many registered and driving on the highways today.   We have seen a dramatic shift in people looking for 240 restoration parts.  We also have a huge community using the Volvo 240 as a platform allowing them to convert and install different drivetrains from other vehicles, primarily big displacement V8’s.  Why not, the engine bay is huge giving enthusiasts many options for alternative transplants.  A good clean running 240 that’s been maintained has gained substantial value within the Volvo community.  You can still find a low mileage gem in the wild sometimes, if you’re looking to buy, be prepared to spend some money!  Most 240’s on the highway still do exactly what they were intended to do, get you and your family safe wherever that may be.   IPD will continue to source 240 products that will support all facets of the 240 community.  IPD is grateful for the Volvo 240 and it’s history.