Discover a Hidden Gem in the Junkyard: The 1993 Volvo 240
The Volvo 200 Series, produced from 1974 to 1993, is arguably one of the most iconic and recognizable Volvo models of all time. In fact, it was so successful that it outlived its supposed replacement and continued to roll off assembly lines until 1993. Recently, a final-year Volvo 240 was found in a Denver-area self-service boneyard, showcasing the legacy of this beloved car.
Evolution of the Volvo 200 Series
Over the decades, Volvo went through various naming systems for these cars. Initially, the second character represented the number of engine cylinders, while the third character indicated the number of doors. However, this system was eventually abandoned, and both sedans and wagons were badged as 240 by the end.
Interestingly, the production of this family of cars can be traced back to 1966 with the Volvo 140 Series. The 140 and 200 shared many similarities, with the main difference lying in their front suspensions. While the 200 boasted a MacPherson strut front suspension, the 140 did not. By 1993, the 200 was considered ahead of its time in 1974 but had become seriously antiquated.
Under the Hood
The 1993 Volvo 240 featured a 2.3-liter B230F SOHC straight-four engine, delivering 114 horsepower and 136 pound-feet of torque. This engine was the only option available for the 240 during its final years.
Transmission Options
While a five-speed manual transmission was available for the 1993 240, the example found in the junkyard came with the optional four-speed automatic transmission.
Price Comparison
In terms of pricing, the MSRP for the 1993 Volvo 240 was $21,820, which would be equivalent to about $47,193 in 2024 dollars. In comparison, the more modern 850 sedan had a starting price of $24,100 ($52,124 today), while the luxurious 940 sedan had a base price of $24,995 ($54,059 adjusted for inflation).
The Indestructible Volvo 240
Despite its simplicity, the Volvo 240 had a reputation for being seemingly indestructible and winning the hearts of its owners. Even in the junkyard, it’s evident that these cars could withstand the test of time. Although the gauge cluster was missing from the example discovered, a VIN search revealed that it had surpassed the 300,000-mile mark during its 31 years on the road.
The Highest-Mile Vehicle
While this 1993 Volvo 240 may not have set any records for mileage, it is worth noting that the highest-mile vehicle found during previous junkyard travels was a 1990 Volvo 240 with an impressive 631,000 miles. Numerous other 240s with over 300,000 miles have also been documented over the years. Although we can assume that this final-year 240 was still running at the end, the combination of high mileage and vandalization damage made repairing it uneconomical.
A Bittersweet End
This particular Volvo 240 was originally sold new in Denver, and it is quite ironic that it will now meet its final fate in nearby Aurora, where it will be crushed. Rickenbaugh Volvo, the dealership where it was initially purchased from, is still in business today. It serves as a reminder of the journey this car has taken and its impact on its owners.
The Undeniable Appeal of the Volvo 240
The Volvo 240 holds a special place in the hearts of many enthusiasts. Its reputation for reliability and durability has made it a beloved classic. While minivans may have become more popular choices for families over time, the Volvo 240 remains a symbol of safety and longevity. Choosing a minivan over a Volvo 240 may be considered by some as signing a death warrant for the entire family.