Is the S60 like the 850? Which newer models are like the 850, if any? I'm trying to get a newer Volvo, only I want to be familiar with the issues, and the setup as the 850, so the learning curve is not so big. Any comments? Thanks in advance.

 

v70 is

 

If you want a newer version of the 850 a 1998 70 series is basically identical to an 850. After that they change up a little bit.

 

You can get an 850 or 70 series for mildly inexpensive prices.

 

I own both 850 and S60. They both have 5 cylinder engine. Newer S60 are 6 cylinder. Tranny is different.
S60 is fully loaded but I prefer to drive 850. It is impossible to do U-turn with S60. 850 has more back seat space and S60 has sportier seats. S60 is good for long distance (faster and stronger than any car in its class).
So S60 is improved version from 850 (except space and steering)

 

If only! I am in the same boat; have a 95 850 wagon that I picked a few yrs ago to replace my daily driver and to use as utility vehicle (amazing room in this thing!).

Since owning it i have become a volvo convert; been very impressed with it overall. So the wife starts getting a little jealous and wants a volvo too, but of course wants something newer and with low miles.

So we go test drive a few S60s; very disappointing IMO. Absolutely no legroom in back seat and turning radius is worse than a GM product (didn't think that was possible..)! The NA S60 seemed like a dog compared to my NA 850 and noisier on rough roads. Long story short, I'm still looking for a clean low mileage 98 S70 or 850. I think they screwed the pooch when ford took em over...

 

S60's rock.


That's my next car.

06 S60R in that weird teal color with the orange/tan and black interior

 

Vote for S70.

 

Get a C70 with the HPT. OR get an S60R.

 

Engine wise the S60's & 850's are similar. Interior room would be S80 and 850. If you go to the S80 you also get a bigger engine.

 

Evolutionary speaking, the S60, S70 and 850 are all similar. The 850 was replaced by the S70 and then the S70 was replaced by the S60. The design evolved from one ot another. Some call the S60 as a more rounded 850. Motors are all similar legroom and obviously interior varies. The old Bricks are going to have more room because of their styling and of course the rounder they get the more room they cut! I love 850's and S60s. I will eventually have an S60. It just depends on what design and room you want. BUt really they are all the same but not! If that makes sence.

 

Another vote for 850.....I am absessed with them. Tried a 98 V70 but personally, I find 850's to be more quality built as compared to newer generations. Simpler electronics - means less problems and more reliable.

 

I vote 850 - sure I am biased, but my brother has an s70 and has had lots of goofy electrical issues that he can not fix at home. Most of my 850 issues have required little more than a trip to a salvage yard. Also, I see a lot more 850 parts available for cheap in my area.