Market Position:
The Volvo 740 represented Volvo's strong offering in the mid-size luxury/executive sedan and wagon segment, emphasizing safety, durability, and comfort. It was positioned against competitors like the Mercedes-Benz 190E, BMW 3 Series, and Audi 80/90.
Competitive Analysis:
The 740 offered a blend of European build quality and distinctive Volvo safety engineering. It was known for its robust chassis, comfortable ride, and practical interior space, particularly in the wagon variant, appealing to families and those prioritizing long-term reliability over sportiness.
Key Features:
Renowned Volvo safety features (crumple zones, reinforced passenger cage), reliable B230 engine, classic Scandinavian design, spacious and functional interior, available wagon body style, rear-wheel drive platform.
Coverage Areas:
Vehicle operation, maintenance, safety features, controls, dashboard indicators, emergency procedures, specifications.
Page Count:
Approximately 150-200 pages (typical for this era and model).
Manual Type:
Owner's Manual
Format:
Printed Paperback
Systems Covered:
Engine operation and basic care, transmission controls, braking system, steering, suspension, climate control, lighting, electrical system overview, safety restraints, body and interior features, dashboard instrumentation, warning lights.
Procedures Included:
Starting and driving, checking fluids (oil, coolant, brake fluid, windshield washer fluid), tire pressure and changing, bulb replacement, fuse replacement, basic climate control operation, locking and unlocking, fuel cap operation, safety belt usage, child seat installation basics, emergency brake operation, emergency procedures (e.g., flat tire, overheating, jump starting).
Technical Depth:
Focuses on user-level operation, maintenance, and immediate troubleshooting. Does not cover in-depth mechanical repair or advanced diagnostics, which would be found in a service manual.
File Format:
N/A (Printed)
Print Quality:
Original factory print quality, typically black and white illustrations and text.
Binding Type:
Stapled or perfect bound (depending on original production).
Paper Type:
Standard uncoated paper, durable for workshop/glovebox use.
Primary Engine:
2.3L (2316cc) Inline 4-Cylinder, Naturally Aspirated (B230F) or Turbocharged (B230FT).
Horsepower Naturally Aspirated:
Approx. 114-121 hp @ 5400 rpm (B230F).
Torque Naturally Aspirated:
Approx. 131-135 lb-ft @ 3000 rpm (B230F).
Horsepower Turbocharged:
Approx. 162-165 hp @ 5000 rpm (B230FT).
Torque Turbocharged:
Approx. 180-185 lb-ft @ 3000 rpm (B230FT).
Fuel System:
Bosch L-Jetronic or Motronic electronic fuel injection (EFI).
Engine Codes:
B230F (Naturally Aspirated), B230FT (Turbocharged).
Ignition System:
Electronic ignition with distributor.
Standard Transmission:
4-speed Automatic (AW71).
Optional Transmission:
5-speed Manual (M90 - often found in some variants, but automatic was more common).
Transmission Features:
Rear-wheel drive, hydraulic torque converter for automatic, overdrive gear in automatics.
Wheelbase:
Approximately 109.1 inches (2770 mm).
Length:
Approx. 190.5 inches (4840 mm) for sedan, 192.0 inches (4875 mm) for wagon.
Width:
Approx. 68.1 inches (1730 mm).
Height:
Approx. 55.3 inches (1405 mm) for sedan, 56.5 inches (1435 mm) for wagon.
Curb Weight:
Approx. 3100-3400 lbs (1400-1550 kg) depending on body style and equipment.
Safety Ratings:
Volvo's reputation for high safety standards, though formal crash test ratings from organizations like NHTSA or IIHS for this specific model year might vary. Known for robust construction and advanced safety features for its era.
Active Features:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS - often optional or standard on higher trims), power-assisted front disc brakes, rear drum brakes, power steering.
Passive Features:
Three-point seat belts with pretensioners, reinforced passenger safety cage, energy-absorbing steering column, side-impact protection beams, dual front airbags (optional or standard depending on market and trim), child safety locks.
Infotainment System:
Factory-installed AM/FM stereo radio with cassette player. Optional CD player might have been available on higher trims or as an aftermarket addition. Manual covers basic radio operation and speaker system.
Driver Assistance:
ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) was the primary driver assistance technology, usually optional. Cruise control was also common.
Connectivity:
No modern connectivity features like Bluetooth or USB. Basic features are limited to the radio and power accessories.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,000-5,000 miles (5,000-8,000 km) or 6 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type used (refer to manual for specific recommendation).
Timing Belt Replacement:
Typically every 50,000-60,000 miles (80,000-100,000 km) or 5-7 years. Critical to replace as failure can cause severe engine damage.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 20,000-30,000 miles (30,000-50,000 km).
Engine Oil Specification:
API SG or SH, SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40 (check manual for precise recommendation based on climate).
Coolant Specification:
Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze (e.g., Volvo P/N 1161098-0 or equivalent), mixed 50/50 with distilled water.
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
Dexron III (or equivalent) Automatic Transmission Fluid.
Brake Fluid Specification:
DOT 3 or DOT 4.
Power Steering Fluid Specification:
ATF Dexron II/III or Volvo P/N 1161047-5.
Known Issues:
Rust (wheel arches, rocker panels, rear quarters), coolant leaks (heater core, hoses), electrical issues (idle control valve, ABS sensors, power window motors), fuel pump failure, worn suspension bushings, distributor cap/rotor wear, O2 sensor failure. Turbo models can experience oil seal leaks or turbocharger wear.
Oil Filter Part Number:
Mann Filter W1013/1, Mahle OC27, Bosch 0451103035, Volvo P/N 1275432-3 (typical).
Air Filter Part Number:
Mann Filter C2215, Mahle LX37, Bosch 1457429920, Volvo P/N 1378567-3 (typical).
Brand Heritage:
Volvo Car Corporation, founded in 1927 in Sweden, built a global reputation for safety, reliability, and robust engineering. The brand's iconic "safety cage" and three-point seatbelt technology have set industry standards.
Model Evolution:
The Volvo 740 and its sibling, the 760, were introduced in 1982 as successors to the Volvo 240 series. The 700 series featured a more modern, angular design. The 740 was positioned as the more accessible model compared to the V6/turbocharged 760, often featuring the reliable B230 four-cylinder engine.
Production Years:
1984-1992 for the 740/760 series.
Manufacturing Locations:
Primarily Sweden (Torslanda plant), with some production in other countries over the model's lifespan.
