Hey, new to the world of Volvos and looking for advice. Been a long time member of a Nissan Maxima forum, now hoping to be a long timer in this Volvo forum. (This site looks better, and more organized than the other Volvo forums).

First, what do the numbers on the models mean? I have no clue. Second, I am now in Japan and moving back to Atlanta soon and will be looking for a cheap, older wagon to drive for a while. I like to work on my own rides and dont mind getting my hands dirty, so high miles, etc. dont scare me. Any advice as to what I should be looking for in a car and what to ABSOLUTELY avoid? My target price is app. 3-4k and year range is about 1995. Am I being realistic? Oh yeah, a wagon isnt necessary, but I have to admit, it would be convenient, and I would never admit it in the past, but I think the wagons look nice.

Thank you,

T.D.

 

Welcome.

I would say to look for a 1995-1996 850 Turbo.
Pretty much all models are good.

 

Quickest reply I ever got on a forum, thank you!

I do have concerns about turbo models though. I have heard alot of horror stories about high mile turbos roasting engines, etc. I gotta admit I dont know alot about them though. What are the pitfalls to look for?

 

I agree go with a turbo because once you don't you will regret it later.

 

OK. I am convinced. after reading through the posts and checking out ebay and the local ads more I am really liking the 850 for both style and price and fun factor. Gonna be posting there from now on.

Thanks,

T.D.

 

Also have the car checked all over especially the turbo and RMS and everything.

 

On the 850's the Major things are Evaperator's leaking, ABS modules going bad, Rear engine seals leak, and some other minor things.

The engines I have seen get fried were for 2 reasons.
1. Coolant leak that was never fixed and Blew the engine.
2.Oil leaks that never get fixed and burn the engines.

If the engine is taken care of it will last over 300,000 miles easy.

Timing belts are every 70,000 or earlier, Check them about every 50,000 to be safe.

They are fairly easy to work on. One of the easiest cars I have ever worked on.