To many, the solid 900 Series is the quintessential Volvo; a robust, lumbering tank ideal for antique dealers. Certainly the older models did little to dispel this belief - but those in the know will tell you that later versions are very different. Displaced by the less boxy S and V90 line?up in 1996, the 900 Series has been around since the start of the decade. However, it only really came to prominence in the summer of 1994, the era we are concentrating on, when a substantially revised 960 was introduced, in turn leading to a much-improved 940 range.
With its neater design, new interiors and improved trim levels, not to mention sharper handling and mellower ride due to modified suspension, the 960 suddenly started to look like a serious BMW suspension rival. In short, it became as good to drive as it had always been to travel in. True, it never matched the very best from BMW Audi or Mercedes, but it still fares better than many in its class. Potential buyers should know their ranges. Although the 940 and the upmarket 960 look similar, the latter is by far the better car and wiser buy, benefiting from stronger engines, plusher cabins and a far classier ambience. In contrast, the 940 feels the cheaper spin-off, although it has always had price and the option of turbodiesel power on its side.
There are many common qualities, however, and both cars feel immensely solid, rugged and safe. Comfort and spaciousness rank highly, too, plus what better big family estate could you wish for? A massive spread of models awaits you, and the final choice rests with buyers’ needs. All are smooth and long-lasting, but non-turbocharged 2.3 litre 940s can feel overwhelmed in these heavyweight bodies. There is a pick of three 940-turbo powerplants, depending upon year: a 2.3 Turbo with 165bhp for earlier models; after 1994, a special LPT (Light Pressure Turbo) yielding a healthy 135bhp and strong pulling power; or the HPT (High Pressure Turbo) producing 170bhp.
This latter unit replaced the earlier turbo in the summer of 1996. Only one turbodiesel was produced; a muscular six-cylinder, 122bhp, 2.4-litre providing nearly the same power as the 2.3 petrol unit. The turbos give a good account of themselves, with the HPT on a power par with the two big sixes found in the BMW air suspension, but without the smoothness. The 2.9 six-pot has always delivered the goods, and in 24-valve guise punches out 204bhp. As part of the 1994 revamp, a downsized 2.3 litre was introduced. It does not have its bigger brother’s midrange poke, but its 170bhp more than suffices, making it our choice. With the S/V90 evolution, the 960 was the first to duck out, starting in late 1996. However, a selected 940 range survived into 1998, the last being special value-for-money estates badged 2.3 Torslanda and the far better equipped LPT Celebration.