When my beloved Golf was involved in an accident through my recklessness, the courtesy car was taken back and I was left to use public transport.
I called a friend who deals in used carsto see if he had anything cheap. “Have I got a motor for you?” was his response. Taxed till the end of June, MOT’d till the end of June, a Volvo 340 DL - £80, yes £80!!!
As public transport is possibly the most inconvenient way to travel I parted with the cash. Walked over to see a faded blue “D” reg 1.4 340. My first thought was WHAT HAVE I DONE!!!!! After thinking about the marvellous walk to and fronm the bus station, the wonderful bus I have to catch I decided to give the little bugger a trial.
I got in and closed the door, a solid clunk as it shut. Pulled out the choke and turned the key. To my amazement it started with out even seeming to think about it! 136,000 mile were on the clock and this thing started quicker than some much newer cars I have driven. The clutch was light and I had no problems finding the biting point. Into first gear and off we went.
Performance of this little character can not and never will be described as sprightly. 0-60 seemed to take days rather than seconds, but it was designed for a purpose. To get from A to B. The seats offer no real support, but after all you’re hardly going to be rallying this little devil – having said that , they are comfortable. The steering seems a little heavy at times, but some models do have power steering worth finding one of those.
Build quality is to this day still amazing. The 1.4 engine will never compete with Ferraris’ but it is perfectly adequate for this car. Economy is unbelievable, this last week I have averaged over 30 mpg so it’s still better than public transport.
I was today informed that the golf is a total loss, but who cares, I have the VOLVO!!!!!
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Saloon - Front (FWD) - 6 Speed - (Man) / 6 Speed Geartronic - (Auto) - 2401 cc - Max Speed: 143 mph - 185 bhp - Diesel - Available Trims: S, SE, SE Lux, SE Sport, Sport
Estate - Front (FWD) - 6 Speed - (Man) / 6 Speed Geartronic - (Auto) - 2401 cc - Max Speed: 140 mph - 185 bhp - Diesel - Available Trims: R-DESIGN, R-DESIGN Premium, SE, SE Lux, SE Lux Premium, SE Premium, S, Sport
Advantages: Looks great, nippy for the engine size, economy good, big boot, tough. Disadvantages: 1.2 16v. Seat recline on three door is cack, Sun Roof pointless.
ian_jamsie 08.03.2005 ·
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