I'm brand new here and looking to get either an S70 or an 850.

Which should I get?

Any advice, opinions or comments would be much appreciated!

 

The S70 replaced the 850 in 1998. Both are very popluar, and reliable cars. Obviously the S70 in 98 got a "less boxy" body, but still similar to the 850. I own a 97 850 and the 96-97 850's were the best of the run.. and also the 98 S70 seems to be one of the best and reliable also. I hear on here that in 99 the S70 had the computers networked and some people have had a few hiccups. But doesn't seem to be but a "few". The S70's also has a "Sport Tuned Suspension" so it might handle a slight different than the 850, but both should be almost the same. IMO, choose whichever catches your eye and appeal... The S70 has a slight nore agressive stance and look, and then of course the 850 has the "Stereotypical" Brick look. The 850's have a cult like following as so do the 240's.....Reguardless of which you choose, you are getting an EXELLENT car. Just make sure to look at the Service History of which ever vehicle you choose, and good luck on your search!

 

thanks a lot for your thoughts! im looking at an 99 s70 t5 right now, its pretty sweet. the parents of a good friend of mine own a volvo repair shop and the car has been driven by his mom since new so its in great shape. they want $5k for it which i think is a very good price. when i do make a purchase i'll be sure to come back as i look to make some mods to the car

 

$5,000 for a 99 S70 that has been totally maintained is a very good deal. Is it a Turbo model or what? The GLT had a low pressure turbo in 99 and that is fine. The 98's are quite a bit more reliable, but since it's been owned by a Volvo mechanic I'm sure he has worked out all the problems.

 

Sounds to me like a NO Brainer... Good deal TOO!

 

all GLT's and T5's have a turbo. The GLT has a low pressure and the T5 has a high pressure. And I agree, the '98 models sound more reliable than the '99. I think it has to do with Ford buying Volvo around that time...

 

Just for clarification the Low Pressure Turbos on the GLT's started in 97. The 850 GLT's prior to 97 did not have the LPT.