We're looking at purchasing either a 2003 V70 and a 2001 V40 both with nearly 100k miles on them. I was curious as to the high mileage reliability of both cars and what experiences owners have had with either of these models. Our main concerns are reliability and driving in the snow. A post 2002 AWD model is just a bit out of our reach.

Thanks

 

To me that is like comparing a Honda Accord to a Mercedes. I would take the V70 any day of the week. I have no feel though for the reliability of either one, but Volvo's in general are very reliable, but they do cost a little more to maintain than do Japanese cars, but well worth the small extra expense.

My understanding is the V40 is kind of the entry level Volvo that was introduced to compete with Accords and Camrys while the V70 is pretty much the flagship of the wagons made by Volvo.

 

Yes, I realize they are vastly different beasts and I'm asking to compare apples to oranges.

It was a joy to test drive the V70 after the V40. But this is for my wife and she just wants something reliable with good gas mileage and good in the snow. My preference is, naturally, for the V70 but it's several thousand more. So I'm just testing the waters here to see if one model has any better or worse history with high mileage.

Last year I bought my youngest daughter a 940 sedan and my older daughter an 850R which was quite difficult to turn over to her as I became very attached to it after driving it a few months. We are loving the Volvo's and have about up to $10K to replace an aging Subaru Outback.

Any thoughts would be most welcome.
Thanks. Love this forum!