I'm looking for the best value and least repairs. I had a 2004 V70 XC...operative word had. I cant afford to repeat that experience. I so regret selling my 240 DL years ago, but I digress. Any advice is appreciated!

 

The 850 GLT or the S70 are your quintessential Volvo's. Find an old 5 speed or T Model 850 and you have a fun big sedan.

 

I'd go with a 2000 - 2009 S60. There's a ton of them out there. The S40s are on a completely different platform, I like those but most of my Volvo fan friends prefer the S60s over the S40s in that year range. There's one school of thought to AVOID the T5 (the turbo-charged version) and go with the regular 2.4 or 2.5 engine but I'm sure there are strong feelings on both sides of that argument. I personally don't think you can lose either way. Just be sure to keep up with changing the timing belt as recommended.

 

I'd either go pre 2000 or post 2004. The common problem areas were the first generation AWD transmissions, the ETM (throttle body) prone to worn contact switches, ABS controller boards (solder cracks require the boards resoldered), CEMs (failed relays for low beams and solder cracks), The PNP sensors and ABS controller problems also go pre 2000 but are not difficult fixes.

As to turbo or not to turbo (I've owned 3 turbo cars) - while the NAs do have fewer components to fail, the turbos themselves are stout. Usual issues are with sensors (ie a boost control valves etc) which are pretty easy to diagnose/fix and are not failure prone.

Some have noted issues with fuel delivery - pre 2000s usually need the fuel pump / relay / pressure regulator replaced at some point - the post 2000s are younger but introduce a fuel pressure sensor which can lead to cold start issues. My only complaint about the post 2004s is the infotainment system is very complex and not easily replaced with aftermarket so make sure your choice has the features you want.

 

850 all the way. Frontwheel drive 5 cylnder still made by volvo not ford.

 

We owned our 95 850T since new, retired last year at 250K miles when my daughter inherited a 2008 Mazda 3 with 70K miles. Couldn't keep it so it was sold off for $300 (needed a PCV system and some oil seals.) If you are handy, there are some easy fixer uppers out there..

 

One of my 850Rs is a daily with 350,000. Granted i have done Alot of work to it myself. There strong cars worth keeping on the road