Hello everyone, so as you will probably be able to tell I know very little about Volvo but hoping you guys will educate me. I'm looking for a sporty car that isn't too expensive to maintain, will do 0-60 in the 7s or lower, is rwd or awd, and preferably is available in manual. So what, if any, are my options? My budget around $4,000. Currently I'm looking into s60rs which seem fantastic but a bit problematic and the 850 series which I hear great things about but it seems the only non fwd variant is the r which is quite uncommon. I'm sure I missed some though so any advise is greatly appreciated.

 

850 AWDs didn't come native to the US but you can find V70s in AWD with the T5 engine as a good starting point. Volvo RWDs are the 700/900 series which the 700s ended sales in 1992 and the 900s in 1998. Big fan base for these "red block" cars as they are among the most reliable/maintainable cars ever. A late model with a 4 cyl turbo would be a good starter for your criteria. Many of the AWD volvos have transmission issues (valve body replacements etc) so best to do research on which years/models and the car's maintenance history. Alas, manuals are hard to find so they often sell at a premium. If you dont mind FWD, one model to check out is a hardtop C70 coupe. If you find one with a manual and high pressure turbo, its a keeper.

 

Thanks a bunch, the c70 is really starting to grow on me I just wish wish it was rwd. You're right though, I don't think I could say no to a nice c70 manual (I've always had a thing for coupes). I see you mention hardtop. Is there anything wrong with the the convertible? I'm not really a fan of the added weight and reduced stiffness but I wouldn't pass up a nice one just because its a convertible unless the c70 conv. is no good. Thanks again.

 

first generation C70 convertibles are not ultra stiff cars so they tend to develop rattles and after 15 years or so the top may be due for a replacement. The Coupes are very stiff - and can be made even stiffer by installing a cross brace from a convertible (stiffness = better control and handling while cornering). I'd say for me its what the goal is - in town cruiser to be seen = convertible. high performance, back roads put a smile on your face ride = coupe with some add-ons like IPD sway bars, fresh shocks, maybe a mild ECU tune...