1st time buyer

Hi! I am looking to buy a 1986 240 DL with 194,000 miles. It is listed in good mechanical condition, new paint job, with maint. records. Asking price is $2650. Kelly Blue book lists $1650. What do I need to know when looking to buy? Is 194,000 miles considered high in the Volvo series? I am a first time Volvo prospective buyer. Help me!!!! :-)

Thank you vey much,
Amie Q

[Peter Milnes]

Try with an offer of $2000, as the asking price is $1000 more than Blue Book. I am sure that if your offer is not accepted, that you can obtain one in as good condition for around $2000. My advice is if it is not acceptable (your offer) then keep looking as there are plenty of 240s available in good to very nice condition cheaper than the asking price for this one.

All the best, Peter

[Clifford Pope]

194,000 is not particularly high IF, a very big if, it has been regularly and properly serviced.
If the engine is clean, the oil looks new but not too suspiciously new, there is a nice clean smell when you sniff the oil filler not a burnt smell, the camshaft and valves make very little noise, and there are records of frequent oil and filter changes, then the mileage is of little consequence.
A neglected engine will be nearing the end of its life, but an engine and car that have been looked after will do another 100,000 easily.

Hope this helps.
Cliff Pope