Segment:
Mid-size luxury/executive sedan and station wagon.
Competitors:
Competed against vehicles like the BMW 3 Series, Mercedes-Benz 190E, Audi 80/90, Saab 900, and American luxury sedans of the era.
Selling Points:
Renowned for safety, durability, robust engineering, comfortable ride, and a distinct Scandinavian design aesthetic.
Vehicle Systems:
Engine operation, powertrain, chassis, electrical system, climate control, safety features, instrument panel, controls, and driver information.
Operational Procedures:
Starting and driving, operating controls, dashboard indicators, fuel economy, changing tires, jump starting, basic fluid checks, and emergency procedures.
Depth:
Covers essential owner-level operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting. Does not include detailed repair procedures or diagnostic codes typical of a service manual.
Digital Format Availability:
Typically available as a PDF scan for digital sales.
Print Quality Description:
Original factory print quality; scans may vary in clarity but are generally readable.
Original Binding:
Staple-bound or saddle-stitched booklet.
Original Paper:
Standard quality paper for owner's manuals of the era.
Engine Type:
Inline-4 Cylinder, Naturally Aspirated
Displacement Liters:
2.3L
Bore X Stroke Mm:
96.0 x 79.4 mm
Horsepower Hp:
114 hp @ 5000 rpm (depending on market and emissions regulations)
Torque Lb Ft:
136 lb-ft @ 3000 rpm (depending on market)
Fuel Delivery:
Bosch K-Jetronic (CIS) or LH-Jetronic fuel injection
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline (91 octane recommended)
Engine Code Example:
B230F (for fuel injected models)
Engine Code Notes:
Some markets might have different engine variants (e.g., B230FT turbo).
Transmission Type Std:
4-speed Manual Transmission (M46 Overdrive)
Transmission Type Opt:
4-speed Automatic Transmission (AW71)
Automatic Features:
Lock-up torque converter for improved fuel efficiency.
Manual Fluid Type:
SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90 GL-4 gear oil
Automatic Fluid Type:
Dexron-III (or equivalent)
Automatic Capacity Liters:
Approximately 8.5 liters (dry fill, includes torque converter)
Crash Test Data:
Volvo's reputation for safety was very high. While formal NCAP ratings as we know them today were nascent, Volvos of this era were known for robust construction, impact-absorbing crumple zones, and strong passenger cages.
Active Safety:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) - optional on most models, Power-assisted disc brakes front and rear.
Passive Safety:
Three-point seat belts with pretensioners (front), reinforced passenger compartment, side-impact beams, energy-absorbing steering column, padded interior surfaces.
Audio System:
Factory-installed AM/FM radio with cassette player, optional premium sound systems (e.g., by Clarion or Alpine).
Speaker Configuration:
Typically 4-6 speakers (door, dash, rear parcel shelf).
Advanced Features:
Cruise control, optional ABS, power windows, power locks, central locking system.
Early Connectivity:
Limited to basic audio system. No modern connectivity features like Bluetooth or USB.
Oil Change Interval Km:
Every 7,500 - 10,000 km or 6-12 months, whichever comes first.
Spark Plug Replacement Km:
Typically every 30,000 - 40,000 km for standard plugs.
Timing Belt Replacement Km:
Crucial: Every 80,000 - 100,000 km or 5-7 years for B230 engines. Failure can cause catastrophic engine damage.
Engine Oil Type:
API SG or higher, SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40 recommended. Consult manual for temperature-specific viscosity.
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze, typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water. Volvo green coolant (G48) compatible.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.
Common Wear Items:
Fuel injectors (especially on early K-Jetronic), fuel pump relays, mass airflow sensor (on LH-Jetronic), front suspension bushings, heater core leaks, vacuum line deterioration.
Rust Prone Areas:
Wheel arches, rocker panels, strut towers, rear differential area.
Oil Filter Example:
Mann W910/3, Bosch 3300, Purolator L20019 (cross-reference required for exact fitment)
Engine Oil Capacity Liters:
Approximately 5.0 liters (with filter change)
Cooling System Capacity Liters:
Approximately 8.5 liters
Heritage Focus:
Volvo's heritage is deeply rooted in safety, durability, and practicality, originating from Gothenburg, Sweden.
Platform:
Based on the Volvo 700 series platform, which debuted in 1982 with the 760. The 740 was introduced as a more accessible variant.
Production Years:
1984-1992 (for the 740 model)
Manufacturing Locations:
Primarily Sweden, with some assembly in Canada and Belgium.
