Thinking about purchasing our 2nd Volvo and looking for some opinions between the S60 and S80. Here are the particulars and my pros/cons:

2004 S80 81K miles $12K Light Gray Turbo.
Pros - extra room, lower miles
Cons - lower MPG, boring color, higher price,

2004 S60 94K miles $10K Dark Gray Turbo
Pros - sporty feel, higher MPG, lower price, nice color
Cons - less leg room in back,

2002 S60 85K miles $10K Green Turbo
Pros - same
Cons - 2 yrs older, otherwise same

Is the outlook on maintenance between an S60 and an S80 any different (ie. is one model known for more problems than the other)?

Dealer said the '04s have the same engine, so I gues the only reason the S60 would get better MPG is due to being a lighter vehicle?

 

You'd have to do your research, but I recall the early model S80's having some glitches that the s60 did not have. I bought an early model s60 new way back when and that is what's triggering this recollection. My s60 had the t5 drivetrain, and recollect the t6 was in s80s? Sorry can't be of more help.

 

I think by '05 they were sorted out. My 50 thou S80 has been nearly flawless. I think they are really different cars, the ride is so different. The 02 seems high to me, the lower mileage 80 appeals to me most. And I think the S80 look better in lighter colors and the darker colors look better on the 60's. Strangely enough I only like the 40s in red, a color that I feel is horrible on the bigger cars. However, I would wear plaid and polka dots unless my wife makes me change so I'm no fashion expert.

 

Agreed on the colors. Although my s60 was white and that looked pretty good. My one and only ever white car.

 

I was told by Swedish Engineering of Ann Arbor MI that the S60's are great cars. The S80 is great too if they are 2005 and newer. Also was told to stay away from the 3.2 6 cyl. The only decent engine was the 2.4 5 cyl. However I test drove the S60 AWD and I being a guy of 6 feet 1 inch tall didn't quite care for it. I like to call the S60 a 4 door 2 seater, cause there is no leg room in the back for an average American adult.
All in all I prefer my 1997 850 GLT all sorts of room, 2.4liter turbo, engine/transmission is un-killable. :-) hope this helps!

 

Same for me at about 6'2" with my s60. The front seat did accomodate me just fine, unlike similar size cars, but no one would want to sit behind me.

 

The S80 was updated with the 2004 model year. 2004-2006 are the good years with the first generation model - average significantly fewer repairs. The S80 is roomier and safer than the S60, but does cost a little more $.