suggested purchase price for a 760 saloon in

[CharlesStevenson]

Hi there, can anyone assist me in working out whether what looks like a good car is really so.

I've noticed that a neighbour is selling their car a Volvo saloon 760 F reg, labelled turbo intercooler on the boot. Outwardly it looks vgc, leather interior, metallic grey paint and alloys. No scratches, dents or rust that I can see at present. I don't know anything about it, yet, but it looks tasty.

Obviously fsh or not, mots and owners need to be confirmed but are there any key points to consider.

I currently drive a 740 estate 2.3 carb and whilst I don't perhaps want to keep the 760 for ever, it looks good value, especially since the asking price is set at £850.00. I'd aim to get that reduced further if I was to purchase it.

Any feedback on the asking price and whether I could be saddling myself with a costly vehicle compared to the trusty 740 would be most appreciated.

Thanks

Charles

Well, what you have here is the second best version of the wonderful 760. They came as V6, as petrol turbo and diesel turbo. The petrol turbo is a pretty good engine and not overly stressed in the factory set-up. However, all turbo cars will have been driven harder than non-turbos so checking their condition is essential. Look for blue smoke, listen out for whine on the turbo (this is not necessarily an indication of a problem though, whine on an otherwise fine car is probably ok, whine in combination with other indications is not), look for oil in the air filter, oil leaks (i.e. blown gaskets). When you test drive it, check the overdrive (if this is the M46) or the auto box. Let the car tell you its tale by carefully examining it. Also, this being your neighbour might give you an idea as to how he drives.

As for the rest, check all gizmos, check the AC and carefully examine the leather for cracks. This will be more costly to maintain than a 740 carb but boy, will you like it!!!

George

'87 745 GLE Turbo Diesel Intercooler
'89 440 GL 1.7