Segment:
Mid-size luxury sedan/wagon with a focus on safety and durability.
Competitors:
BMW 3 Series, Mercedes-Benz W201 (190E), Audi 80/90, Saab 900.
Safety Focus:
Renowned for Volvo's commitment to safety, including robust construction and advanced safety features for its era.
Durability:
Engineered for longevity and reliability, a hallmark of Volvo's reputation.
Styling:
Classic European boxy styling, distinctive and instantly recognizable.
Engine Operation:
Detailed explanation of engine controls, indicators, and basic troubleshooting.
Powertrain Operation:
Guidance on automatic and manual transmission operation, clutch usage.
Braking System:
Explanation of ABS (if equipped), parking brake operation, brake fluid checks.
Electrical System:
Overview of dashboard lights, fuses, and basic electrical component functions.
Climate Control:
Operation of heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems.
Safety Features:
Information on seat belts, airbags (if equipped), child safety restraints.
Instrument Panel:
Detailed explanation of all gauges, warning lights, and controls.
Exterior Features:
Operation of lighting, wipers, mirrors, door locks, and windows.
Interior Features:
Adjustment of seats, steering wheel, operation of interior lighting, and storage compartments.
Routine Maintenance:
Guidance on checking oil, coolant, washer fluid levels, tire pressure.
Fluid Checks:
Specific instructions and locations for checking all essential vehicle fluids.
Tire Care:
Information on tire pressure, rotation, and wear indicators.
Emergency Procedures:
Instructions for changing a flat tire, jump-starting the battery, and basic roadside assistance.
Fueling Instructions:
Proper fuel type recommendations and procedures.
Cleaning And Care:
Recommendations for interior and exterior cleaning and protection.
Diagnostics Level:
Basic troubleshooting for common warning lights and operational anomalies.
Repair Procedures:
Limited, focused on owner-level maintenance (e.g., bulb replacement, fluid checks).
Documentation Scope:
Comprehensive owner's information, not a detailed service or repair manual.
Engine Type:
Inline-4 Cylinder (B230F, B230FB, B230FT variations)
Displacement:
2.3 Liters (2316 cc)
Fuel Delivery:
Bosch K-Jetronic (CIS) or LH-Jetronic fuel injection
Horsepower:
Approx. 114-162 hp depending on specific engine variant (e.g., naturally aspirated vs. turbocharged).
Torque:
Approx. 130-177 lb-ft depending on specific engine variant.
Recommended Fuel:
Unleaded gasoline (87 octane or higher recommended)
Transmission Type:
4-speed Manual Transmission (M46) or 4-speed Automatic Transmission (AW71)
Transmission Type Optional:
Some models may have had a 5-speed manual (M47).
Overdrive:
Automatic transmission typically featured overdrive (4th gear).
Wheelbase:
Approx. 109.1 inches (2770 mm)
Length:
Approx. 189.3 inches (4808 mm)
Width:
Approx. 70.1 inches (1780 mm)
Height:
Approx. 56.2 inches (1427 mm)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 3000-3300 lbs (1360-1500 kg) depending on body style and equipment.
NHTSA Rating Era:
While specific NHTSA ratings for 1990 are not readily available in a standardized format as today, Volvo was consistently a leader in safety for its time, with the 740 known for its strong safety cage and impact absorption.
ABS:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was often an optional feature.
Seatbelts:
Three-point inertia-reel seat belts for all occupants; front seat belt height adjustment.
Airbags:
Driver's side airbag became more common in this era, but was not standard on all models.
Child Safety:
Rear child door locks, provisions for child safety seats.
Rollover Protection:
Reinforced roof structure for improved rollover protection.
Audio System:
Factory AM/FM radio with cassette player, often with optional premium sound systems.
Controls:
Manual controls for audio and climate system, no digital interfaces or touchscreens.
Cruise Control:
Standard or optional cruise control system.
Lighting Features:
Halogen headlamps, often with power-adjustable aim.
Connectivity Options:
No modern connectivity features like Bluetooth or USB. Auxiliary inputs for external devices may be present on some aftermarket or updated audio units.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 3,000-5,000 miles (5,000-8,000 km) or 6-12 months, depending on driving conditions.
Air Filter Replacement:
Recommended every 15,000-30,000 miles (24,000-48,000 km).
Spark Plugs:
Replacement typically every 30,000-50,000 miles (48,000-80,000 km).
Timing Belt:
The B230 engine uses a timing belt. Replacement is critical, typically every 60,000-90,000 miles (96,000-145,000 km) or per manufacturer recommendation to prevent catastrophic engine damage.
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40 API SG/SH rated oil.
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze, typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water. Volvo coolant or equivalent meeting Volvo's specifications.
Transmission Fluid:
Automatic: Dexron III or equivalent. Manual: SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90 GL-4 gear oil.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.
Oil Leaks:
Common to find oil leaks from the valve cover gasket, oil pan gasket, and front/rear main seals due to age and material degradation.
Cooling System:
Radiator, thermostat, and heater core can be prone to leaks or failure with age.
Fuel System:
Fuel pumps and fuel pressure regulators can become less reliable over time. K-Jetronic systems can be sensitive to vacuum leaks.
Electrical Gremlins:
While generally robust, older wiring harnesses and connectors can develop issues.
Volvo Legacy:
Volvo has a long-standing reputation for safety, durability, and practicality, dating back to its founding in 1927.
700 Series Origin:
The 740 was part of Volvo's larger 700 series, introduced in 1982 with the 760. The 740 was positioned as a more accessible version, offering many of the same attributes.
Design Philosophy:
The 700 series represented a significant styling departure for Volvo, moving towards a more angular, European aesthetic while retaining its core values.
Production Years:
The Volvo 740 was produced from 1984 to 1992.
Manufacturing Location:
Primarily manufactured in Sweden, with some production also occurring in Belgium and other locations.
Safety Awards Era:
While specific awards for the 1990 model year might not be as publicly cataloged as modern vehicles, the 740 consistently received recognition for its safety engineering and was often cited in safety studies of the era.
Consumer Reports Perception:
Consumer Reports and similar publications often lauded Volvo's durability and safety, though sometimes noted less engaging driving dynamics compared to European rivals.
