Used Car Math

Used Car Math - by Scott Hart
Originally printed September 1993

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As the price of new cars and insurance continues to climb, we’ve noticed a trend toward restoring and maintaining versus replacing. A new Volvo 240 will sell for $23,000 to $25,000 while late ‘70s and early ‘80s 240s can be had for $1800 to $2500. We recommend ‘78-82 models with Bosch K-jectronic fuel injection and Bosch ignition. Depending on the condition of the car you start with, you can invest $1500 to $3000 and restore it to a nice, safe and reliable car. You’ll be pleasantly surprised at how affordable and easy it is to regain that new car feel.

Avoid all 6-cylinder models, the diesel, ‘82 through ‘84 4-cylinder models with Bosch LH fuel injection (air mass meter and idling problems) and all models with Chrysler ignition systems. Don’t panic if you own one of the models; just be aware that they may be more expensive to operate and maintain...

http://www.ipdusa.com/nl-26-194