The 1987 Volvo 740 is a robust Swedish sedan and wagon, part of the larger 700 series that debuted in 1982 and ran until 1992. Known for its distinctive boxy styling, it appealed to buyers seeking durability and safety. Key trims included the GL and GLE. Its popularity stemmed from its reputation for extreme longevity and a solid, reassuring build quality, making it a practical choice for families and long-haul drivers. New prices varied by trim but generally fell in the mid-$20,000s for this era.
The Good
The 1987 Volvo 740 offers exceptional reliability, a comfortable and spacious interior, and a classic, enduring design. Its practical nature appeals to the head, while its solid build and safe reputation resonate with the heart, providing peace of mind.
The Bad
While generally robust, watch out for potential electrical gremlins, particularly with aging wiring harnesses and sensors. Rust can be a concern in certain climates, especially around wheel wells and rocker panels. Transmission issues can arise on high-mileage examples.
1987 Volvo 740: Quick Overview
- Engine Options: The 1987 Volvo 740 primarily featured two gasoline engine options. The base engine was typically a 2.3-liter (2316 cc) inline-four cylinder. For the higher trims or optional upgrades, a turbocharged version of the same 2.3-liter engine was available.
- Horsepower: The naturally aspirated 2.3L inline-four produced around 114 horsepower. The turbocharged 2.3L engine offered a more spirited performance, typically generating between 162 and 175 horsepower, depending on the specific turbo setup and boost pressure.
- Fuel Economy: Fuel economy varied by engine and transmission. For the naturally aspirated models, expect around 18-20 MPG in the city and 23-26 MPG on the highway. The turbocharged models were generally less fuel-efficient due to their performance focus, often averaging 16-18 MPG in city driving and 21-24 MPG on the highway.
- 0-60 Times: The 0-60 MPH times were not a strong suit for the base models, often taking around 10-12 seconds. The turbocharged variants offered significantly quicker acceleration, with 0-60 MPH times typically falling in the 8-9 second range, making them feel much more responsive.
- Towing Capacity: The 1987 Volvo 740 was not primarily designed as a towing vehicle. While it could technically tow light loads, specific towing capacity figures were not widely published or emphasized. It's best suited for hauling personal belongings or small trailers rather than heavy-duty towing.
- Trim-Level Features:
- GL (Grand Luxe): This was a common mid-range trim, typically featuring power windows, power door locks, cruise control, a tilt steering wheel, and a comfortable cloth interior. Air conditioning was usually standard.
- GLE (Grand Luxe Executive): The GLE offered more upscale amenities, often including leather upholstery, upgraded sound systems, heated front seats, and sometimes alloy wheels. It aimed for a more luxurious feel. - General Features: Both trims benefited from Volvo's renowned safety features, including a very strong chassis, crumple zones, and often ABS as an option. Spacious interiors, durable upholstery, and a large trunk or cargo area in the wagon were standard highlights.
1987 Volvo 740 Specifications
Vehicle Information
| Year | 1987 |
| Make | Volvo |
| Model | 740 |
| Trim | - |
| Style | 5-Speed |
| Type | Wagon |
| Category | Compact Car |
Manufacturing Details
| Made In | Sweden |
| Manufacturing City | GOTHENBURG |
Dimensions
| Doors | 4-Door |
| Curb Weight | - |
| Gross Vehicle Weight Rating | - |
| Overall Height | - |
| Overall Length | - |
| Overall Width | - |
| Wheelbase Length | - |
| Standard Seating | - |
Engine & Performance
| Engine | 2.3L I4 |
| Engine Size | 2.3L |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 |
| Transmission | 5-Speed Manual |
| Transmission Type | Manual |
| Transmission Speeds | 5-Speed |
| Drivetrain | Rear-Wheel Drive |
Additional Features
| Anti-Brake System | - |
| Steering Type | - |
Pricing
| Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) | - |
| Invoice Price | - |
| Delivery Charges | - |
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What Problems Does the 1987 Volvo 740 Have?
The 1987 Volvo 740 is widely recognized for its impressive long-term reliability, a hallmark of Volvo engineering from this era. However, like any vehicle that has aged considerably, certain issues tend to surface. One of the most frequently reported concerns revolves around the electrical system. Aging wiring harnesses can become brittle and degrade, leading to intermittent electrical faults. This can manifest as non-functioning power windows, issues with the dashboard lights, or problems with the fuel injection system. The fuel pump relay is another common failure point.
The engine management system, while generally robust, can sometimes experience issues with the Mass Air Flow (MAF) sensor or the Idle Air Control (IAC) valve, leading to rough idling or stalling. In turbocharged models, the turbocharger itself can require attention if not properly maintained, with potential for leaks or reduced performance.
Transmission issues, particularly with the automatic transmissions, are not uncommon on high-mileage examples. These can include slipping gears, delayed shifts, or complete failure if fluid changes have been neglected. On manual transmissions, clutch wear is a factor.
Cooling system components, such as radiators, hoses, and water pumps, can degrade over time, leading to overheating issues. Heater cores are also prone to leaks. For models driven in areas with harsh winters, rust can be a significant concern. The wheel wells, rocker panels, and undercarriage are particularly susceptible to corrosion, which can compromise structural integrity.
While specific major recalls for the 1987 model year are not as prevalent as for some other vehicles, it's always advisable to check for any outstanding safety recalls through the NHTSA database. Overall, the long-term reliability is excellent, but these are the areas where diligent maintenance and inspection are crucial for keeping a 1987 Volvo 740 on the road.
The engine management system, while generally robust, can sometimes experience issues with the Mass Air Flow (MAF) sensor or the Idle Air Control (IAC) valve, leading to rough idling or stalling. In turbocharged models, the turbocharger itself can require attention if not properly maintained, with potential for leaks or reduced performance.
Transmission issues, particularly with the automatic transmissions, are not uncommon on high-mileage examples. These can include slipping gears, delayed shifts, or complete failure if fluid changes have been neglected. On manual transmissions, clutch wear is a factor.
Cooling system components, such as radiators, hoses, and water pumps, can degrade over time, leading to overheating issues. Heater cores are also prone to leaks. For models driven in areas with harsh winters, rust can be a significant concern. The wheel wells, rocker panels, and undercarriage are particularly susceptible to corrosion, which can compromise structural integrity.
While specific major recalls for the 1987 model year are not as prevalent as for some other vehicles, it's always advisable to check for any outstanding safety recalls through the NHTSA database. Overall, the long-term reliability is excellent, but these are the areas where diligent maintenance and inspection are crucial for keeping a 1987 Volvo 740 on the road.
How long will the 1987 Volvo 740 last?
The 1987 Volvo 740 is legendary for its long-term durability. With consistent and proper maintenance, it is not uncommon for these vehicles to reach and even exceed 250,000 miles. Many owners report consistently achieving well over 300,000 miles, with some even pushing towards 400,000 or more. This longevity is a testament to Volvo's robust engineering and the quality of materials used. The key to such extended service life lies in regular oil changes, timely replacement of wear items, and addressing minor issues before they escalate. While the core mechanical components are incredibly durable, aging rubber seals, electrical connectors, and suspension bushings are the primary wear items that will eventually require attention over decades of service.
What Technology & Safety Features are Included?
The 1987 Volvo 740, reflecting its era, was more focused on fundamental comfort and safety than cutting-edge technology. The built-in tech was relatively basic by today's standards. Entertainment typically consisted of an AM/FM radio, often with a cassette player. Higher trim levels might have offered more speakers or a slightly more powerful stereo system, but advanced features like CD players or digital displays were not available.
Driver-assistance features were virtually non-existent in the modern sense. The most advanced 'assistance' would have been cruise control, which was a common option or standard on higher trims. Power steering was standard, contributing to ease of driving.
Safety was Volvo's paramount concern, and the 740 was equipped with substantial safety features for its time. Standard safety equipment included strong seatbelts with pre-tensioners, a reinforced passenger compartment, side-impact beams, and energy-absorbing crumple zones in the front and rear. Anti-lock brakes (ABS) were often available as an optional feature, significantly enhancing braking control, especially in slippery conditions.
While specific crash-test ratings for the 1987 model year might not be as readily available or standardized as modern tests, Volvo vehicles of this era consistently performed well in safety evaluations. They were known for their structural integrity and ability to protect occupants in a collision. The robust construction and thoughtful safety design were key selling points for Volvo, and the 740 was a prime example of this commitment, offering a reassuringly safe environment for its occupants.
Driver-assistance features were virtually non-existent in the modern sense. The most advanced 'assistance' would have been cruise control, which was a common option or standard on higher trims. Power steering was standard, contributing to ease of driving.
Safety was Volvo's paramount concern, and the 740 was equipped with substantial safety features for its time. Standard safety equipment included strong seatbelts with pre-tensioners, a reinforced passenger compartment, side-impact beams, and energy-absorbing crumple zones in the front and rear. Anti-lock brakes (ABS) were often available as an optional feature, significantly enhancing braking control, especially in slippery conditions.
While specific crash-test ratings for the 1987 model year might not be as readily available or standardized as modern tests, Volvo vehicles of this era consistently performed well in safety evaluations. They were known for their structural integrity and ability to protect occupants in a collision. The robust construction and thoughtful safety design were key selling points for Volvo, and the 740 was a prime example of this commitment, offering a reassuringly safe environment for its occupants.
What Colors Options are Available?
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In the meantime, feel free to explore the other sections for more content.
1987 Volvo 740 Prices and Market Value
When new, the 1987 Volvo 740 typically retailed between approximately $22,000 and $27,000, depending on the specific trim level (GL, GLE) and optional features. This placed it in the premium mid-size sedan and wagon segment of its time. As with most vehicles, the 740 experienced significant depreciation in its early years. However, due to their exceptional durability and classic appeal, well-maintained 1987 Volvo 740 models now hold their value remarkably well in the used market. While a project car might be found for under $2,000, examples in good to excellent condition can fetch anywhere from $3,000 to $7,000, and rare, exceptionally preserved low-mileage examples can command even more. Factors like mileage, overall condition, maintenance history, and the presence of rust heavily influence resale value.
1987 Volvo 740 Cost of Ownership
The 1987 Volvo 740 is generally considered economical to own. Insurance premiums are typically quite low due to its age and safety record. Fuel costs are moderate; the naturally aspirated engines offer decent MPG, while the turbocharged variants consume more. Maintenance costs are relatively low, especially if you perform some tasks yourself, as parts are readily available and mechanicals are straightforward. Repair costs can be low to moderate; while some specialized Volvo parts might be pricier, its legendary reliability means fewer unexpected repairs. Overall, its robust nature and affordable running costs make the 740 a very cost-effective vehicle to own long-term.
1987 Volvo 740 Fuel Efficiency
Fuel Type
Gasoline
Fuel Capacity
-
City Mileage
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Highway Mileage
-
1987 Volvo 740 Warranty
Basic
Original warranty
0 months / No data
Estimated remaining
Expired
Powertrain
Original warranty
0 months / No data
Estimated remaining
Expired
Rust
Original warranty
0 months / No data
Estimated remaining
Expired
1987 Volvo 740 Insurance
Insurance for a 1987 Volvo 740 is moderately priced, reflecting its status as a Wagon with strong safety ratings and
reasonable repair costs.
reasonable repair costs.
How Does the 1987 Volvo 740 Compare to Other Wagon?
The 1987 Volvo 740 competed in a segment populated by other well-regarded sedans and wagons. Its primary rivals included cars like the:
- BMW 3 Series (E30): Performance-wise, the BMW often offered superior handling and more engaging driving dynamics, especially with its inline-six engines. However, the 740 generally surpassed the 3 Series in terms of interior space and cargo capacity (especially the wagon). Reliability for the 740 is arguably better over the long haul, with fewer complex systems to fail. Features in the 740 were more comfort-oriented, while the BMW leaned towards sportiness. Price-wise, both were in a similar premium bracket when new, but today, well-maintained 740s can be more affordable.
- Mercedes-Benz 190E/230E: The Mercedes offered a similar level of build quality, comfort, and safety. Performance was comparable, with both having competent but not thrilling base engines, and more potent optional variants. The 740 often provided slightly more rear-seat room and a more utilitarian wagon option. Reliability is a strong point for both, though the Mercedes could be more expensive to repair. Features were similarly focused on comfort and durability.
- Audi 100/200: Audi offered a more aerodynamic design and often a more sophisticated interior. Performance could be strong, especially with the turbocharged models. However, the 740 generally held a stronger reputation for outright long-term mechanical durability and ease of maintenance. Features and comfort were competitive.
Similar/Better Alternatives:
For buyers prioritizing ultimate reliability and practicality, the 1987 Volvo 740 remains a strong contender. If outright performance and sporty driving dynamics are paramount, a BMW 3 Series (E30) might be a better fit. For those seeking a more luxurious experience with a similar robust build, a Mercedes-Benz 190E is a worthy alternative. However, for a blend of ruggedness, safety, and long-term value, the 740 is hard to beat among its contemporaries. Other robust choices from this era include certain models from Saab and perhaps some American sedans known for their durability like the Ford Crown Victoria, though these offered a different driving experience and aesthetic.
- BMW 3 Series (E30): Performance-wise, the BMW often offered superior handling and more engaging driving dynamics, especially with its inline-six engines. However, the 740 generally surpassed the 3 Series in terms of interior space and cargo capacity (especially the wagon). Reliability for the 740 is arguably better over the long haul, with fewer complex systems to fail. Features in the 740 were more comfort-oriented, while the BMW leaned towards sportiness. Price-wise, both were in a similar premium bracket when new, but today, well-maintained 740s can be more affordable.
- Mercedes-Benz 190E/230E: The Mercedes offered a similar level of build quality, comfort, and safety. Performance was comparable, with both having competent but not thrilling base engines, and more potent optional variants. The 740 often provided slightly more rear-seat room and a more utilitarian wagon option. Reliability is a strong point for both, though the Mercedes could be more expensive to repair. Features were similarly focused on comfort and durability.
- Audi 100/200: Audi offered a more aerodynamic design and often a more sophisticated interior. Performance could be strong, especially with the turbocharged models. However, the 740 generally held a stronger reputation for outright long-term mechanical durability and ease of maintenance. Features and comfort were competitive.
Similar/Better Alternatives:
For buyers prioritizing ultimate reliability and practicality, the 1987 Volvo 740 remains a strong contender. If outright performance and sporty driving dynamics are paramount, a BMW 3 Series (E30) might be a better fit. For those seeking a more luxurious experience with a similar robust build, a Mercedes-Benz 190E is a worthy alternative. However, for a blend of ruggedness, safety, and long-term value, the 740 is hard to beat among its contemporaries. Other robust choices from this era include certain models from Saab and perhaps some American sedans known for their durability like the Ford Crown Victoria, though these offered a different driving experience and aesthetic.
Final Verdict: Is the 1987 Volvo 740 a Good Wagon?
The 1987 Volvo 740 is ideal for budget-conscious individuals or families seeking a highly reliable, safe, and practical vehicle that prioritizes durability over performance or modern tech. It's an excellent choice for first-time car buyers, students, or anyone needing a dependable workhorse that won't break the bank with running costs.
It is absolutely worth buying, especially in the used market. Its value proposition is immense, offering more longevity and safety than many newer, less robust cars for a fraction of the price.
Conditions for buying should focus exclusively on the used market, as new models are obviously unavailable. Look for well-maintained examples, ideally with documented service history. The GL and GLE trims offer good value, with the GLE providing a touch more comfort. Turbocharged models offer better performance but can be more complex to maintain. Prioritize cars with minimal rust and a functional electrical system. With careful selection, a 1987 Volvo 740 can provide years of faithful service.
It is absolutely worth buying, especially in the used market. Its value proposition is immense, offering more longevity and safety than many newer, less robust cars for a fraction of the price.
Conditions for buying should focus exclusively on the used market, as new models are obviously unavailable. Look for well-maintained examples, ideally with documented service history. The GL and GLE trims offer good value, with the GLE providing a touch more comfort. Turbocharged models offer better performance but can be more complex to maintain. Prioritize cars with minimal rust and a functional electrical system. With careful selection, a 1987 Volvo 740 can provide years of faithful service.
Cathleen V
Cathleen is an exceptional freelance writer covering hot topics in the automotive world from a gearhead's perspective. Her articles delve into various aspects of automotive technology and history, offering readers detailed insights into engine performance, reliability, and maintenance. Through her engaging and informative writing, Cathleen provides valuable information to automotive enthusiasts and consumers alike, helping them make informed decisions about vehicle maintenance and purchases.