Overview
The 1984 Volvo 240 DL represents the core of the Swedish manufacturer’s reputation for durability and safety during the 1980s. As part of the long-running 200 series, this vehicle utilized the robust rear-wheel-drive platform that defined Volvo’s engineering philosophy for nearly two decades. The 240 DL, or “De Luxe,” served as the volume-selling trim level, balancing essential comfort features with the utilitarian design language that became synonymous with the brand’s identity in the North American market.
The 1984 model year featured the D24 engine, a 2.4-liter inline-six diesel powerplant developed in collaboration with Volkswagen. This engine was a notable choice for the 240, aimed at consumers prioritizing fuel efficiency and longevity over high-performance output. Built at the Torslanda plant in Sweden, the 240 DL was engineered with a focus on occupant protection, featuring a reinforced safety cage and crumple zones that were ahead of many contemporary competitors. Its boxy, functional aesthetic allowed for exceptional interior space and cargo utility, cementing its status as a preferred choice for families and professionals who valued longevity and practical design.
| Vehicle Overview | |
|---|---|
| Brand | Volvo |
| Model | 240 DL |
| Model Year | 1984 |
| Generation | 200 Series |
| Trim | DL |
| Body Style | Station Wagon |
| Vehicle Segment | Midsize |
| Vehicle Class | Midsize Station Wagons |
| Market | USA |
| Platform | Volvo P2 |
| Assembly Plant | Torslanda, Sweden |
| Country of Origin | Sweden |
| Production Start | 1974 |
| Production End | 1993 |
| VIN Identifier | – |
| Base MSRP | – |
| Destination Charge | – |
| Total MSRP | – |
| Powertrain | |
| Powertrain Type | Internal Combustion |
| Engine Family | Volkswagen D24 |
| Engine Name | D24 |
| Engine Code | – |
| Engine Configuration | Inline-6 |
| Displacement | 2.4 Liters |
| Bore x Stroke | 76.5 mm x 86.4 mm |
| Compression Ratio | 23.5:1 |
| Aspiration | Naturally Aspirated |
| Fuel Delivery | Indirect Injection |
| Valve Train | SOHC |
| Engine Block Material | Cast Iron |
| Cylinder Head Material | Aluminum Alloy |
| Oil Capacity | 6.5 Quarts |
| Oil Specification / Viscosity | 15W-40 |
| Horsepower | 78 hp @ 4800 rpm |
| Torque | 102 lb-ft @ 2800 rpm |
| Redline | – |
| Drivetrain | RWD |
| Transmission | Manual 5-spd |
| Final Drive Ratio | – |
| Axle Ratio | – |
| Fuel Economy | |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Recommended Octane | – |
| EPA City MPG | 23 |
| EPA Highway MPG | 31 |
| EPA Combined MPG | 26 |
| Fuel Economy (L/100 km) | – |
| Fuel Tank Capacity (gal) | 15.8 |
| Estimated Driving Range | – |
| Annual Fuel Cost | – |
| CO₂ Emissions | – |
| Greenhouse Gas Score | – |
| Smog Rating | – |
| Performance | |
| 0-30 mph | – |
| 0-60 mph | 18.0 seconds |
| 0-100 mph | – |
| Quarter Mile | – |
| Top Speed | 95 mph |
| Braking Distance (60-0 mph) | – |
| Lateral Acceleration | – |
| Power-to-Weight Ratio | – |
| Dimensions & Capacities | |
| Length (in) | 190.9 |
| Width (Without Mirrors) (in) | 67.3 |
| Width (With Mirrors) (in) | – |
| Height (in) | 57.1 |
| Wheelbase (in) | 104.3 |
| Front Track (in) | 56.3 |
| Rear Track (in) | 53.5 |
| Ground Clearance (in) | – |
| Curb Weight (lbs) | 3050 |
| GVWR (lbs) | – |
| Towing Capacity (lbs) | – |
| Payload Capacity (lbs) | – |
| Passenger Volume (cu ft) | – |
| Cargo Volume (Behind Rear Seats) (cu ft) | 41.0 |
| Cargo Volume (Max) (cu ft) | 74.0 |
| Turning Circle | 32.2 ft |
| Approach Angle | – |
| Departure Angle | – |
| Breakover Angle | – |
| Safety Ratings | |
| NHTSA Overall Rating | – |
| NHTSA Frontal Crash | – |
| NHTSA Side Crash | – |
| NHTSA Rollover | – |
| IIHS Award | – |
| Small Overlap Front | – |
| Moderate Overlap Front | – |
| Side Impact | – |
| Headlights Rating | – |
| Front Crash Prevention | – |
| Technology & Connectivity | |
| Infotainment Display | None |
| Instrument Cluster | Analog |
| Apple CarPlay | No |
| Android Auto | No |
| Navigation System | No |
| Audio System | AM/FM Radio |
| Speaker Count | 2 |
| Wireless Charging | No |
| Wi-Fi Hotspot | No |
| OTA Updates | No |
| Digital Key | No |
| Warranty & Ownership | |
| Basic Warranty | – |
| Powertrain Warranty | – |
| Corrosion Warranty | – |
| Roadside Assistance | – |
| Complimentary Maintenance | – |
| Specs.Autos Exclusive Data | |
| Engine Assembly Plant | – |
| Transmission Supplier | Volvo |
| Gear Ratios | – |
| Differential Type | Open |
| Cooling System Capacity | – |
| Roof Load Capacity (lbs) | – |
| Safety Recall Count | – |
| Production Volume | – |
| Units Sold in USA | – |
Consumer Insights & Market Appeal
The 1984 Volvo 240 DL diesel is highly regarded in the used car market for its mechanical simplicity and exceptional structural integrity, though it requires specific maintenance attention. The D24 engine is known for its longevity if the timing belt is replaced strictly on schedule, as failure can result in catastrophic engine damage. Prospective buyers should inspect the cooling system for signs of head gasket wear, a common issue with this diesel unit, and check for rust in the floor pans and rear wheel arches. While performance is modest by modern standards, the vehicle remains a popular choice for enthusiasts who value its classic aesthetic, ease of repair, and the unique character of its diesel powertrain, often serving as a reliable daily driver or a restoration project for those dedicated to the Volvo brand.
