Positioning:
The 1987 Volvo 240 represented Volvo's continued commitment to safety, durability, and practicality in the mid-size sedan and wagon market. It was positioned as a reliable and long-lasting vehicle for families and individuals prioritizing security and longevity over outright performance.
Competitors:
Competed against vehicles like the Audi 100, BMW 3 Series (though often in a higher price bracket), Mercedes-Benz 190E, and American sedans like the Ford Granada and Chevrolet Celebrity.
Vehicle Features:
Renowned for its robust build quality, exceptional safety features for its era (crumple zones, reinforced passenger cage), comfortable ride, and spacious interior, particularly the wagon variant.
Engine Systems:
Engine operation, cooling system, lubrication system, fuel system, ignition system (including Bosch LH-Jetronic fuel injection and ignition control).
Transmission Systems:
Manual and automatic transmission operation, fluid checks.
Braking Systems:
Brake system operation, parking brake.
Electrical Systems:
Lighting systems, instruments and controls, fuse box layout and identification, battery maintenance.
Chassis Systems:
Suspension and steering system overview.
Comfort Controls:
Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system operation.
Basic Maintenance:
Checking fluid levels (oil, coolant, brake fluid, power steering fluid), tire pressure checks, wiper blade replacement, bulb replacement.
Safety Checks:
Seat belt operation, airbag system (if applicable for the specific 1987 model, though less common then), child restraint system information.
Driving Operation:
Starting the engine, shifting gears, operating controls, parking procedures.
Troubleshooting Basics:
Indicator light explanations, basic troubleshooting steps for common issues.
Depth:
Covers essential owner-level information for operation, basic maintenance, and safety. Does not provide detailed repair procedures or diagnostic codes typical of a service manual.
Engine Type:
Inline 4-cylinder, overhead camshaft (OHC)
Engine Displacement:
2.3 Liters (2316 cc)
Engine Code Common:
B230F (Naturally Aspirated), B230FT (Turbocharged, less common in base 240)
Horsepower B230F:
Approximately 114-116 hp @ 5000 rpm
Torque B230F:
Approximately 135-140 lb-ft @ 2500-3000 rpm
Fuel Injection:
Bosch LH-Jetronic electronic fuel injection
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline
Coolant Type:
Ethylene Glycol based antifreeze (Volvo recommends specific formulations or compatible equivalents).
Oil Type Recommendation:
API SG or SH rated, SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40 (check manual for exact seasonal recommendations).
Oil Capacity W Filter:
Approximately 4.7 Liters (5.0 US Quarts)
Transmission Type Standard:
4-speed Manual Transmission
Transmission Type Optional:
AW71 3-speed or AW72 4-speed Automatic Transmission (OD)
Automatic Features:
Lock-up torque converter on AW72 for improved fuel economy.
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Dexron III or compatible ATF (Automatic Transmission Fluid).
Length Sedan:
Approximately 187.8 inches (4770 mm)
Length Wagon:
Approximately 191.5 inches (4864 mm)
Width:
Approximately 67.7 inches (1720 mm)
Height Sedan:
Approximately 56.1 inches (1425 mm)
Height Wagon:
Approximately 57.0 inches (1450 mm)
Passenger Volume:
Generous for its class, especially in wagons.
Cargo Volume Wagon:
Substantial, offering versatility for hauling.
Curb Weight Sedan:
Approximately 3000-3100 lbs (1360-1400 kg)
Curb Weight Wagon:
Approximately 3200-3300 lbs (1450-1500 kg)
Wheel Bolt Pattern:
5x108mm
Standard Tire Size:
185/70R14 or 195/60R15 (depending on trim and options)
Historical Safety Perception:
Highly regarded for safety, a hallmark of the Volvo brand.
Active Safety:
Four-wheel disc brakes (on most models), anti-lock braking system (ABS) was becoming available or optional in this era.
Passive Safety Cage:
Reinforced passenger compartment, energy-absorbing steering column, side-impact protection beams.
Seat Belts:
Three-point inertia-reel seat belts for front and rear occupants.
Head Restraints:
Adjustable front and rear head restraints.
Audio System:
Basic AM/FM radio with cassette player. Optional premium sound systems were available.
ABS Availability:
ABS was available as an option on later models, potentially including some 1987 variants, but not standard.
Connectivity Features:
Minimal by modern standards. Primarily focused on basic vehicle operation and safety.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 5,000-7,500 miles or 6-12 months (refer to manual for precise interval based on driving conditions).
Air Filter Replacement:
Check at oil changes, replace as needed (e.g., every 15,000-30,000 miles).
Spark Plug Replacement:
Check interval varies, often around 30,000 miles for standard plugs.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.
Coolant Capacity:
Approximately 7.0-7.5 Liters (7.4-7.9 US Quarts).
Common Wear Items:
Fuel injectors, fuel pump, ignition system components (coil, distributor cap/rotor if applicable), cooling system hoses, exhaust system, suspension bushings.
Electrical Issues:
Can be susceptible to minor electrical glitches, particularly in wiring harnesses and connectors over time. Fuel injection system sensors can also be a point of failure.
Preventive Maintenance:
Regular inspection of rubber components (hoses, belts, bushings), maintaining proper fluid levels, and addressing any unusual noises or performance issues promptly are key to longevity.
Volvo Heritage:
Founded in 1927 in Gothenburg, Sweden, Volvo is synonymous with safety, quality, and durability.
240 Series Lineage:
The Volvo 240 series was an evolution of the Volvo 140 series, introduced in 1974. It was designed with an emphasis on safety and longevity, becoming one of Volvo's most iconic and long-running models.
Production Years:
The Volvo 240 series was produced from 1974 to 1993, making the 1987 model part of its mature third generation.
Manufacturing Locations:
Primarily manufactured in Sweden and Belgium.
