Volvo: Volvo 240 question, problematic computer, volvo 240

Question
Jason,
Using your info from my last inquiry I have narrowed my search down to two vehicles.  One is a 1983 240GL wagon with 185K miles and the other is a 1988 245DL with 200K miles.  Both are 4 speeds with overdrive and both overall in good condition.  You detailed the issues of the 4 cyl. engine on the 1983 model for me (B21F & B23F) and I was curious to know if you considered the B230 or B234 (I'm not sure which one is in the 88 wagon yet) to be virtually the same as the older version engines.  Are there any issues that would lead me to pick one engine over the other considering the vehicles are in approximately the same condition?  Thanks for your help.

Answer
It sounds like both cars are pretty good choices.  The B230F which is probably in the 1988, is mechanically the same engine, albiet slightly larger and more powerful, but with different fuel injection and computer systems.  I usually stay away from above 1985 because of these more complicated changes, but thats only because I enjoy more the do it yourself, less automated cars.  If you did go post 1985, 88 is the best year to do it, because it is after the wire problem was solved in 87, and before a decidedly problematic computer system in 1989.  With that said, don't be afraid of the newer one, it will give you more power with probably the same reliability as the 83.  For me, the decision would lie in which car I could believe lived a gentler, more frequently maintained life.