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This was the model that began the change in Volvo's image. When the 400 series was launched in 1989, the Swedish cars were still seen as dowdy and boring. It would be putting things too strongly to suggest that the 400 saloons and hatches changed all of that, but it was certainly a car that challenged the preconceptions.
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What you get
The perceived prestige of the Volvo badge at a mass-market price. The downside is that the interior and boot space are significantly down on equivalent Cavaliers and Sierras. Still, as Volvo point out, that never held the 3 series back. BMW might take issue with the comparison however...
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What to look for
Check for problems with early 1.7-litre carburettor cars which were said to be temperamental. Early models without power steering suffered vibrations. In fact, avoid early models, full stop. If you really must have a pre-1991 car, look for signs of rust, especially in the body seams and for door rattles.
Check the interior trim for signs of wear and inspect the quality of any early metallic painted examples; the colour tends to fade. Problems are also fairly common with the electrics, especially the central locking and the fuel pump. Go for cars with power steering and fuel injection if you can.
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Replacement parts
(based on a 1994 1.7 440/460 ex Vat) A clutch assembly will be around £140 and a new catalyst around £400. An alternator should be close to £190 and a radiator around £175. A new tail lamp is around £65. A windscreen should be in the region of £115.
Servicing costs may well surprise you on later models, particularly if you still hold to the view that Volvos are expensive to maintain. Where workshop visits once were required every six months, these need attention only once a year or every 10,000 miles, whichever comes sooner.
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On the road
It's no BMW 3 series, despite what dealers would have you believe. It can be however, a satisfying drive, particularly in 2.0-litre petrol and 1.9-litre turbo diesel guises. Both engines are responsive, though the clonky gearbox will hold you back.
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Overall
Once you've taken your first tentative steps onto the ladder of modern-day Volvo ownership, it becomes easy to understand just why so many owners buy another. For a start, of all Volvos produced since the 1920s, seven out of 10 are still on the road. What better proof of the company's contention that its cars live longer and travel further than any of their competitors?
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