I'm planning on buying another Volvo in the near future but I am still debating on what to buy. I love my s70 but I do not want to buy another automatic. I am also looking to buy a turboed model. I have been looking at some 850s, s70s, and v70s but the manual ones are pretty scarce in my area. I have also been thinking about an s60 t5 or r because they are a lot more common to find standard. However, I would probably have to spend a little more because they are newer models. Also, I heard that Volvo hasn't been quite what they used to be after 98 when ford bought them (what do you guys think?). I am planning on doing some light mods to it visually and mechanically. Based on some more experienced opinions, what would you guys suggest considering the money it may take to maintain mechanically (I know the basics and am learning more in tech school), and the enjoyment of driving, modding, and any other factors you guys can come up with. Thanks!
-Justin

 

My choice would be a '98 S/V70 T5-M.

 

Although buying a used Volvo can preserve you a lot of cash over buying a new one, there are some factors you should look into before buying one to be able to restrict the possibilities that you end up creating a bad cope.