1986-1989 Volvo 240 GL 240.0L

Overview

The Volvo 240 series represents a defining era for the Swedish manufacturer, establishing a reputation for longevity, safety, and utilitarian design. Introduced in the mid-1970s as an evolution of the 140 series, the 240 maintained its boxy, functional aesthetic through the late 1980s. By the 1986-1989 model years, the 240 GL served as a mid-range offering, balancing the simplicity of the base models with additional comfort features and trim appointments that appealed to a broad demographic of professionals and families.

Engineering for the 240 focused on occupant protection, featuring a reinforced safety cage, crumple zones, and a steering column designed to collapse upon impact. The vehicle utilized the robust “Redblock” engine family, specifically the B230 series, which became synonymous with high-mileage durability. Manufactured primarily in Torslanda, Sweden, the 240 was exported globally, with the North American market favoring its rear-wheel-drive architecture and predictable handling characteristics. Throughout its production run, the 240 remained largely unchanged in its core design, a choice that allowed Volvo to refine its manufacturing processes and solidify the car’s status as a reliable daily driver.

Vehicle Overview
Brand	Volvo
Model	240 GL
Model Year	1986-1989
Generation	200 Series
Trim	GL
Body Style	Sedan
Vehicle Segment	Mid-size
Vehicle Class	Compact Cars
Market	USA
Platform	Volvo P2
Assembly Plant	Torslanda, Sweden
Country of Origin	Sweden
Production Start	1974
Production End	1993
VIN Identifier	YV1
Base MSRP	–
Destination Charge	–
Total MSRP	–
Powertrain
Powertrain Type	Internal Combustion Engine
Engine Family	Volvo Redblock
Engine Name	B230F
Engine Code	B230
Engine Configuration	Inline-4
Displacement	2.3L
Bore x Stroke	96mm x 80mm
Compression Ratio	9.5:1
Aspiration	Naturally Aspirated
Fuel Delivery	Bosch LH-Jetronic
Valve Train	SOHC
Engine Block Material	Cast Iron
Cylinder Head Material	Aluminum Alloy
Oil Capacity	4.0 qts
Oil Specification / Viscosity	10W-30
Horsepower	114 hp
Torque	136 lb-ft
Redline	6000 rpm
Drivetrain	Rear-Wheel Drive
Transmission	Automatic 4-spd
Final Drive Ratio	3.73:1
Axle Ratio	–
Fuel Economy
Fuel Type	Regular Gasoline
Recommended Octane	87
EPA City MPG	18
EPA Highway MPG	22
EPA Combined MPG	20
Fuel Economy (L/100 km)	–
Fuel Tank Capacity (gal)	15.8
Estimated Driving Range	330 miles
Annual Fuel Cost	–
CO₂ Emissions	–
Greenhouse Gas Score	–
Smog Rating	–
Performance
0-30 mph	–
0-60 mph	11.5 sec
0-100 mph	–
Quarter Mile	18.5 sec
Top Speed	105 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)	55.9
Wheelbase (in)	104.3
Front Track (in)	56.3
Rear Track (in)	53.5
Ground Clearance (in)	–
Curb Weight (lbs)	2950
GVWR (lbs)	–
Towing Capacity (lbs)	2000
Payload Capacity (lbs)	–
Passenger Volume (cu ft)	–
Cargo Volume (Behind Rear Seats) (cu ft)	17.0
Cargo Volume (Max) (cu ft)	–
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 Cassette
Speaker Count	4
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	Skövde, Sweden
Transmission Supplier	ZF / Aisin-Warner
Gear Ratios	–
Differential Type	Open
Cooling System Capacity	–
Roof Load Capacity (lbs)	220
Safety Recall Count	–
Production Volume	–
Units Sold in USA	–

## Consumer Insights & Market Appeal
The Volvo 240 GL remains a highly regarded choice in the collector and daily-driver market due to its mechanical simplicity and ease of repair. Owners often cite the “Redblock” engine’s ability to exceed 300,000 miles with basic maintenance as its primary appeal. Common issues to monitor include deteriorating wiring harnesses in models produced between 1986 and 1987, worn suspension bushings, and potential rust in the rocker panels or floorboards. While the interior materials are durable, dashboard cracking is a frequent cosmetic complaint. Today, the 240 is valued for its classic boxy aesthetic and its status as a practical, safe, and analog alternative to modern, sensor-heavy vehicles.