The Volvo 240 series, affectionately nicknamed “The Brick,” earned its reputation for legendary safety and exceptional durability. This particular car, a 1982 Volvo 242 DL, represents a highly original example of this resilient era of Swedish engineering. It stayed with its initial owner and their family for many years until the current seller acquired it in 2019. The two-door model is finished in Mist Blue and features a desirable four-speed manual transmission. This 1982 Volvo 242 DL offers a genuine analog driving experience.
Classic Exterior Finish and Features
The car’s body is finished in its factory color, Mist Blue, identified by the code 139. The design is simple, functional, and instantly recognizable as a vintage Volvo. It features practical equipment like mudguards and classic black mirror caps. This particular car does show evidence of its long life and consistent use. The seller notes worn plastics, dings, faded paint, and some scratches around the body. There is also a crease noted on the right quarter panel.
Addressing Past History and Wear
It is worth noting that the Carfax report lists a rear-end collision, resulting in damage to the front of the car. The body also shows some expected corrosion, specifically noted around the spare wheel well area. These factors contribute to the car’s current physical presentation. The vehicle is being offered at no reserve, reflecting its genuine, used condition and history. The two-door body appearance tells a story of decades on the road.
Chassis and Rolling Stock
The 242 DL was factory equipped with power steering, a highly convenient feature for maneuvering the squared-off car. The vehicle rides on standard 14-inch pressed steel wheels, fitted with attractive trim rings. These wheels wear Tornel Classic tires that were mounted recently, approximately 100 miles ago. Braking is handled by power-assisted disc brakes on both the front and rear axles, a common feature for the era.
Suspension and Handling Characteristics
The chassis employs a tried-and-true suspension setup focused on comfort and safety. Up front, it uses the reliable MacPherson strut suspension system. The rear features a live axle supported by longitudinal control arms and torque rods, plus coil springs. This suspension combination provides the predictable and sturdy handling for which the 240 series is famous. It is a solid, confidence-inspiring road presence.
A Time-Honored Interior
The interior is equipped with front bucket seats and a full rear bench, all trimmed in blue cloth fabric. Simplicity defines the cabin, featuring hand-crank windows and a locking glove box. The car is equipped with a functional heater, essential for colder climates. Like the exterior, the interior shows clear signs of its age and mileage. The dashboard has a crack, now covered by a protective plastic cap.
Interior Condition and Mileage Notes
The seller notes minor cigarette burns visible on the carpeting and on the seating surfaces. The four-spoke steering wheel fronts a straightforward gauge cluster. This includes an 85-mph speedometer and a 7k-rpm tachometer. The six-digit odometer currently displays 58,000 miles. However, the Maryland title carries a “Not Actual Mileage” brand. The Carfax also notes a mileage inconsistency in 2014, possibly a clerical error.
Power, Engine Specs, and Performance
Powering this 1982 Volvo 242 DL is the sturdy 2.1-liter B21F inline-four engine. Power is sent to the rear wheels through a four-speed manual transmission featuring an overdrive top gear. The seller performed recent service in 2025 focusing on the fuel delivery system. This work included rebuilding the fuel distributor and the warm-up regulator, and replacing the fuel injectors, fuel pump, and fuel filter. The seller notes that the engine exhibits a rough idle when starting from cold, but otherwise performs as expected for its mileage and age. This model delivers modest power but excels in durability and simple maintenance.
Summary of the 1982 Volvo 242 DL
This 1982 Volvo 242 DL is an exceptional, highly original, and well-documented example of the durable 200-series platform. Its long history with the original owner’s family adds to its appeal as a genuine survivor car. The two-door model’s Mist Blue exterior and simple blue cloth interior reflect the utilitarian charm of its era. With a four-speed manual transmission and recent fuel system service, this car is ready for a new chapter. It is being offered at no reserve with service records and the owner’s manual.
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Source: bringatrailer.com
