BUYING GUIDE An executive-class model that remains in production for the best part of two decades is something of a rarity. The W124-series Mercedes-Benz E-Class, for example, stayed around for just over 11 years, the Rover SD1 chalked up a decade-long career, and the longest-lived Ford Granada/Scorpio model managed barely nine years. The Volvo 240, however, is in a league of its own, launching in 1974 and remaining on sale for the next 19 years. For a relatively upmarket range of saloons and estates, such longevity is very unusual. But as newer, more advanced rivals came and went, the good old Volvo 240 plodded on with only relatively minor updates throughout its career. A combination of toughness, strength, safety and dependability won it many friends throughout its long run, ensuring…
