Hello

I'm looking at buying a 1996 850R, a 1997/98/99 vintage S/V70 or a 1998 S80.

For the Australian $ I want to spend, a low mileage (80-90,000km), low pressure turbo S/V70 auto is within range but I have also seen a high mileage 1998 S80 Twin Turbo auto (200,000km) that has (according to the dealer) had extensive work done to the turbos and suspension to bring it up to scratch. Cosmetically, the drivers seat is a little creased from use but the miles were mainly country miles by a sales rep - it still looks good. There is also a low mileage 1996 auto 850R (90,000km) but it may be a bit old for my liking.

Which is the more reliable option? I'm trying to avoid a money pit!
I understand that there are different levels of performance between these models which may impact reliability.
What is the life expectency of the auto gearboxes, motors, turbos given suitable regular maintenance?
Do any forum members own high mileage Volvos of these models and if so, what sort of maintenance has had to be do along the way?


I have driven a 1999 S70 2.5 20V auto which was nice but a little sluggish - I love the quality feel of these Volvos - I'm coming from a background of French cars that although great to drive, lack the reliability/quality that I want...

I'd appreciate any helpful feedback!

Cheers,

Chris

 

I don't think they started making the S80 until 1999, so I doubt if you saw a 98 S80. Volvo has had quite a few problems with their cars from 99 - 01, so I avoid those cars. My daughter has a 99 S80 that she has had quite a few problems with, and there are others on this board with simialr problems. I would stay away from the S80 all together. I would buy the 96 850 R in a minute if the price is right. I have 97 850 R that I just bought so I can't tell you too much about reliability, but I had a 94 850 Turbo that we ran the crap out of and the engine died at 206,000 miles. I also have a 98 V70 that I have had not problems with. 96 is getting a little old, but then again I would not buy anything newer than a 98 unless I go to the 02 models. These are just my opinions, and I am no expert. I just really like the 850's and the S/V70's, especially the 850 R's.

 

Well Jim............who gives a rip about the cost! If you like it, buy it. I have a c70 as you know and it falls apart with regularity and the warranty is terrible but I enjoy it. My license tag reads: WNTRBTR and so for the most part I drive it only in the winter.....I have very few miles on it but the style.......................it goes unspoken! My summer auto's tag reads: FASTBMW and it never is in the shop but there are quite a few BMW's on the road and very few c70s and so the enjoyment factor rules! My wife drives a Japanese auto and it is reliable and NEVER in the shop..................but............where is the fun?? With life so short, let's enjoy our last vestige of freedom..................and to heck with the reliability. Lastly, as you posted.............what has happened to our friend, TECH??

 

Sadly I'm at the stage of needing one reasonably reliable family car ( I've got a Citroen BX 16 valve for playing with) but at the same time I'm not ready to wear a cardigan and drive a Camry!!!
I've looked at the S80 forum and seen some of the comments on maintenance costs, so although 200Kw has some appeal, the potential problems/expense doesn't.

A 850R or S/V70 T (pre 1998) it is then...



Cheers,

Chris

 

That would be the best and less money to maintain.

Yes I am back.Had very bad computer trouble.

 

I figured that you had a computer issue...............you were terribly missed...............many issues went unanswered!! You are an asset to the Forum Tech...........without your input the forum would simply be like many others where members simply "talk" about their auto and how fast it is. You offer an insight as to how the auto is serviced and repaired and that is rare on most auto forums. One is readily bored with kids 'talking the talk'...........you 'walk the walk'!

 

Thanks I do what I can to help people that can't afford the DEALER.

Thanks for the compliments.

 

Hey Tech, we tried to cover for you while you were gone, but it was not the same. I agree with what Reg said!

 

Thanks guys!!!!
You guys covered good for me!!!

 

Umm...I tried?

YAY!

 

Everyone tried and I thank you for it!!!