Hi,
My beloved 2001 S80 is in need of a new tranny and too many other repairs to list, so I've decided to let 'er go and look for what I REALLY want, which is a '90's Volvo sedan in as close to mint condition as I can find/afford. I want to spend less than 6k. I loved this S80 but have always wanted the 90's, classic( to me) chunky body shape. My wife had an 850 years ago--great car save for a few problems. My question is, are the 90's era Volvos prone to some of tranny issues it seems(correct me if I'm wrong) that the newer ones have faced? AND, of the 90's era sedans, which boasted the biggest trunk(with largest trunk opening)?

 

IMO the best cars volvo built were 850/S70 models thru MY 1998; would steer clear of '93 850 as was 1st MY; they fixed most things in '94.

I have an '95 850 wagon; one of the main reasons i got it was for its cavernous storage space. It's my DD and weekend util vehicle. Wife's car is '98 S70 GLT sedan. Very sweet ride and plenty of trunk storage for a mid size car.

In '99 they went to ETM which i steer away from. Seems most of the tranny problems started about then too.

Of course anytime you're looking to buy a used volvo, get it ckd out by a competent volvo tech first; preferably at a good indy shop! Look for low mileage if possible, but more importantly, regular service records.

Good luck!