Volvo 940 estate
All things must pass, and it’s time for Richard’s Volvo 940 to roll on to a new owner
My old faithful Volvo 940 has gone off to pastures new after four years of use. Its new custodian is Clive Jefferson, from CCW’s sister publication, Practical Classics, who is thus continuing its trend of being owned by classic motoring journalists. Its last but one owner was former CCW editor, Peter Simpson, and I bought it from regular CCW contributor, Russ Smith, four years ago.
M42 BAV was my fifth Volvo, following in the wake of two 240s, a 440 and a 480. I bought it in order to accommodate an ever-growing family of English Setters; the Peugeot 205 I used to have was fine with just one, but when another two hounds came along, it was obvious that only a load-lugging Volvo was going to be up to the job of transporting three crazy canines. Plus I always regretted selling my old 240 estate and wanted something that could match its practicality.
So it was a bit of a no-brainer when Russ announced that he was selling his 940. With the exception of one rather pricey MoT, it’s cost me next to nothing; not bad for a vehicle that I bought for just £250. During the four years and 20,000 miles that I’ve had it, the Volvo has helped me and others to move house, carried all manner of bulky items ( both inside and on its roof ) that might otherwise have called for a van and, of course, kept three English Setters safe and sound (inside, not on the roof ). And all with an enviable level of reliability.
The 940 is being superseded by a 960 – purely because I fancy the same abilities, but with the extra speed and power of a six-cylinder 2.9-litre engine. However, the 940 stayed on for three months after the 960’s arrival because it’s so damn useful. And, um, rather less thirsty than its successor.
My final tasks were giving the 940 a thorough clean outside, and de-dogging it inside. I hope it gives Clive as much great service as it’s given me. I shall miss it – it was one of the good ’uns.