The 1987 Volvo 240 Sedan remains a quintessential example of Scandinavian design, prized for its boxy silhouette and legendary durability. This specific vehicle is a standout because it has remained with its original owner in Texas since it was new. Finished in a distinctive yellow hue, the car has covered 122,000 miles during its single-owner tenure. It captures an era when Volvo prioritized structural integrity and driver visibility over aerodynamic trends. Because it has stayed in the same family, the car carries a level of honesty and history rarely found in the open market. It serves as a time capsule for those who appreciate the no-nonsense engineering of the late eighties. Offshored at no reserve, it offers a compelling opportunity for a collector to continue its documented story. This Volvo is more than just transportation; it is a reliable companion with decades of proven service.
Yellow Paint and Functional Aerodynamic Styling
The exterior of the 1987 Volvo 240 Sedan is finished in an eye-catching yellow that sets it apart from the more common silver or beige examples. It features front and rear spoilers which give the boxy profile a slightly more purposeful and sporty stance. Black mirror caps and window trim provide a sharp contrast to the bright paintwork, emphasizing the car’s clean lines. While it shows some blemishes and a small dent on the right front fender, the body remains solid and straight. Mudguards and fog lights add to the practical nature of the exterior, ensuring it is ready for all weather conditions. It rides on 14-inch steel wheels that are fitted with aerodynamic covers to improve efficiency at highway speeds. One wheel cover does not match the others, adding a bit of authentic character to this honest survivor. This exterior package reflects a vehicle that was used and enjoyed as intended for nearly forty years.
Brown Cloth Interior and Vintage Cassette Stereo
Inside the cabin, the 1987 Volvo 240 Sedan offers a warm and inviting environment finished in brown cloth upholstery. The front bucket seats are known for their exceptional orthopedic support, a hallmark of Volvo’s commitment to driver health. Hand-crank windows and a simple dashboard layout remind the driver of a time when automotive controls were purely mechanical. For entertainment, the original cassette stereo remains in place, allowing for a truly vintage audio experience. Air conditioning is equipped to keep the cabin comfortable during the hot Texas summers where this car has spent its life. A locking glovebox and a four-spoke steering wheel complete the functional cockpit design. The rear bench seat provides ample room for passengers, making it a surprisingly practical choice for modern daily driving. It is a space that prioritizes ergonomics and longevity over flashy electronic gadgets.
Mechanical Simplicity and Rear-Wheel Drive Chassis
The chassis of the 1987 Volvo 240 Sedan is built around a MacPherson strut front suspension and a robust live rear axle. This setup is famously simple to maintain and provides a predictable, stable ride on various road surfaces. Power steering ensures that the car remains easy to maneuver in tight city spaces despite its sturdy construction. Braking is handled by power-assisted discs at all four corners, a premium feature for the time that offers consistent stopping power. Longitudinal control arms and torque rods with coil springs manage the rear axle’s movements for a composed feel. This rear-wheel-drive platform is beloved by enthusiasts for its balance and the ease with which it can be repaired. It represents a level of mechanical transparency that is almost entirely absent from modern vehicles. This foundational engineering is why so many of these “Swedish Bricks” are still on the road today.
Documented Maintenance and Speedhut Instrumentation
Reliability is the core identity of the 1987 Volvo 240 Sedan, especially one with a single-owner history. The six-digit odometer shows 122,000 miles, every one of which was added by the current owner in Texas. An analog clock sits prominently in the gauge cluster next to the 120-mph speedometer, offering a classic aesthetic touch. Recent maintenance in 2023 included the replacement of spark plugs, the fuel filter, and the air filter. The distributor cap and rotor were also refreshed to ensure the ignition system remains sharp and responsive. These service items suggest a car that has been looked after with the intention of keeping it on the road. Having a clean Carfax report with no accidents provides further peace of mind for potential bidders. This Volvo comes with its manufacturer’s literature, helping to verify its lifelong commitment to proper maintenance and care.
Engine Output and 2.3L Inline-Four Performance
The 1987 Volvo 240 Sedan is powered by the dependable 2.3-liter B230 inline-four engine. This powerplant was factory rated at 114 horsepower and 136 lb-ft of torque, providing adequate power for both city and highway use. It is linked to a four-speed automatic transmission that features an overdrive top gear for quieter cruising. This combination is widely regarded as one of the most reliable drivetrains ever produced by Volvo. Because it uses a simple fuel injection system, it avoids the complexities often found in other European cars of the era. The engine bay is spacious, making routine tasks like oil changes and belt inspections very straightforward for the home mechanic. Performance is steady and deliberate, perfectly matching the car’s safe and sturdy reputation. It is an engine designed for hundreds of thousands of miles rather than short-lived speed.
Final Summary
The 1987 Volvo 240 Sedan is a rare find for the collector who values provenance and original-owner history. Its bright yellow exterior and brown interior offer a nostalgic trip back to the mid-eighties in the best possible way. The car’s long-term Texas residency has helped it avoid the rust issues often found in northern examples. With a healthy 2.3-liter engine and recent service work, it is ready to serve its second owner with the same loyalty it showed its first. The inclusion of the original manuals and a clean title makes it a transparent and honest offering. Being sold at no reserve ensures it will find a new home where its legacy can continue. It is an enduring icon of safety and simplicity that still holds its own in a world of complex modern cars. This Volvo 240 is a testament to the idea that good design never truly goes out of style.
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Source: bringatrailer.com
