Overview

The Volvo 940 represents the final evolution of the company’s classic rear-wheel-drive architecture. Introduced in 1990 as a successor to the 740, the 940 maintained the brand’s reputation for safety, durability, and boxy, utilitarian design. While the 960 model featured six-cylinder engines and a more sophisticated multi-link rear suspension, the 940 focused on the reliable “Redblock” four-cylinder engine family, which had become synonymous with Volvo longevity.

Marketed as a premium family hauler, the 940 Wagon was highly regarded for its cavernous cargo space and robust construction. The vehicle utilized the long-standing 700-series platform, benefiting from years of refinement. By the mid-1990s, the automotive industry was moving toward front-wheel-drive platforms, making the 940 one of the last traditional rear-drive wagons available in the North American market. Its production concluded in 1995, marking the end of an era for Volvo’s traditional large-car engineering philosophy.

Vehicle Overview
Brand Volvo
Model 940 Wagon
Model Year 1992-1995
Generation 900 Series
Trim GL / SE / Turbo
Body Style 5-door Station Wagon
Vehicle Segment E-segment
Vehicle Class Midsize-Large Station Wagons
Market USA
Platform Volvo 700/900 Platform
Assembly Plant Kalmar, Sweden / Torslanda, Sweden
Country of Origin Sweden
Production Start 1990
Production End 1998 (Global) / 1995 (USA)
VIN Identifier YV1
Base MSRP $24,000 – $30,000 (est.)
Destination Charge
Total MSRP
Powertrain
Powertrain Type Internal Combustion Engine
Engine Family Volvo Redblock
Engine Name B230
Engine Code B230F / B230FT
Engine Configuration Inline-4
Displacement 2.3 Liters
Bore x Stroke 96.0 mm x 80.0 mm
Compression Ratio 9.5:1 (NA) / 8.7:1 (Turbo)
Aspiration Naturally Aspirated or Turbocharged
Fuel Delivery Bosch LH-Jetronic
Valve Train SOHC, 8 valves
Engine Block Material Cast Iron
Cylinder Head Material Aluminum Alloy
Oil Capacity 4.0 qts
Oil Specification / Viscosity 10W-30 / 10W-40
Horsepower 114 hp (NA) / 162 hp (Turbo)
Torque 136 lb-ft (NA) / 195 lb-ft (Turbo)
Redline 6000 rpm
Drivetrain Rear-Wheel Drive
Transmission Automatic 4-spd (AW70/71/72)
Final Drive Ratio 3.73:1
Axle Ratio
Fuel Economy
Fuel Type Regular Gasoline
Recommended Octane 87
EPA City MPG 17
EPA Highway MPG 23
EPA Combined MPG 19
Fuel Economy (L/100 km)
Fuel Tank Capacity (gal) 21.1
Estimated Driving Range 400 miles
Annual Fuel Cost
CO₂ Emissions
Greenhouse Gas Score
Smog Rating
Performance
0-30 mph
0-60 mph 9.5 – 11.0 seconds
0-100 mph
Quarter Mile
Top Speed 115-125 mph
Braking Distance (60-0 mph)
Lateral Acceleration
Power-to-Weight Ratio
Dimensions & Capacities
Length (in) 190.0
Width (Without Mirrors) (in) 69.0
Width (With Mirrors) (in)
Height (in) 57.0
Wheelbase (in) 109.0
Front Track (in) 58.0
Rear Track (in) 58.0
Ground Clearance (in)
Curb Weight (lbs) 3200
GVWR (lbs)
Towing Capacity (lbs) 3300
Payload Capacity (lbs)
Passenger Volume (cu ft)
Cargo Volume (Behind Rear Seats) (cu ft) 40.0
Cargo Volume (Max) (cu ft) 75.0
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 Cassette
Speaker Count 4-6
Wireless Charging No
Wi-Fi Hotspot No
OTA Updates No
Digital Key No
Warranty & Ownership
Basic Warranty 3 yr / 50,000 mi
Powertrain Warranty
Corrosion Warranty
Roadside Assistance
Complimentary Maintenance
Specs.Autos Exclusive Data
Engine Assembly Plant Skövde, Sweden
Transmission Supplier Aisin-Warner
Gear Ratios
Differential Type Open / Limited Slip (Optional)
Cooling System Capacity
Roof Load Capacity (lbs) 220
Safety Recall Count
Production Volume
Units Sold in USA

Consumer Insights & Market Appeal

The Volvo 940 Wagon is widely recognized by enthusiasts for its exceptional mechanical durability, particularly regarding the B230 engine block, which is capable of exceeding 300,000 miles with consistent maintenance. Common issues for prospective buyers include failing odometer gears, vacuum leaks in the turbo models, and worn suspension bushings that can affect handling precision. Despite these age-related concerns, the 940 remains a popular choice in the used market for those seeking a straightforward, rear-wheel-drive vehicle with significant utility. Its boxy aesthetic has aged into a classic look, and the relative simplicity of its electrical and mechanical systems makes it an accessible project for home mechanics, ensuring its continued presence on the road today.

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