1987-1989 Volvo 240 GL 240.0L

Overview

The Volvo 240 series represents one of the most recognizable designs in automotive history, serving as the backbone of the Swedish manufacturer’s lineup from the mid-1970s through the early 1990s. By the late 1980s, the 240 GL occupied a stable position in the North American market, marketed as a durable, safety-conscious choice for families and professionals. Built on the robust Volvo P2 platform, the vehicle utilized a rear-wheel-drive architecture that prioritized structural integrity and ease of maintenance over cutting-edge performance.

During the 1987-1989 period, the 240 GL featured the reliable B230F engine, a naturally aspirated 2.3-liter inline-four that became synonymous with the brand’s reputation for longevity. While the exterior styling remained largely unchanged—retaining its signature boxy silhouette and upright grille—Volvo focused on incremental improvements to interior ergonomics, electrical systems, and safety features. The 240 GL was positioned as a mid-tier offering, providing more creature comforts than the base DL trim while remaining distinct from the higher-performance turbocharged variants.

The legacy of the 240 GL is defined by its immense durability and the widespread adoption of its safety engineering. It was among the first vehicles to prioritize crumple zones and occupant protection, which helped cement Volvo’s image as a leader in passenger safety. Today, the 240 GL is highly regarded by enthusiasts for its mechanical simplicity, which allows for straightforward repairs and a long service life, often exceeding hundreds of thousands of miles with consistent care.

Vehicle Overview
Brand	Volvo
Model	240 GL
Model Year	1987-1989
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	–
Base MSRP	$17,000
Destination Charge	–
Total MSRP	–
Powertrain
Powertrain Type	Internal Combustion Engine
Engine Family	Volvo Redblock
Engine Name	B230F
Engine Code	–
Engine Configuration	Inline-4
Displacement	2.3 Liters
Bore x Stroke	96mm x 80mm
Compression Ratio	9.5:1
Aspiration	Naturally Aspirated
Fuel Delivery	Bosch LH-Jetronic
Valve Train	SOHC, 2 valves per cylinder
Engine Block Material	Cast Iron
Cylinder Head Material	Aluminum Alloy
Oil Capacity	4.0 qts
Oil Specification / Viscosity	10W-30
Horsepower	114 hp @ 5400 rpm
Torque	136 lb-ft @ 3750 rpm
Redline	6000 rpm
Drivetrain	Rear-Wheel Drive
Transmission	Manual 5-spd
Final Drive Ratio	3.73:1
Axle Ratio	–
Fuel Economy
Fuel Type	Regular Gasoline
Recommended Octane	87
EPA City MPG	19
EPA Highway MPG	26
EPA Combined MPG	22
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	11.5 seconds
0-100 mph	–
Quarter Mile	–
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	–
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 Volvo 240 GL is widely considered one of the most reliable vehicles of its era, prized by collectors and daily drivers alike for its mechanical simplicity and robust “Redblock” engine. Prospective buyers should prioritize checking for signs of deferred maintenance, specifically regarding the timing belt, cooling system hoses, and the integrity of the vacuum lines, as these are common failure points in aging units. Electrical gremlins, often stemming from degraded wiring harnesses in models from this period, are also a known concern. Despite these potential issues, the 240 GL remains a highly sought-after classic in the used car market due to its excellent visibility, comfortable seating, and the availability of affordable replacement parts, making it an ideal entry point for those interested in vintage European motoring.