Hello,

I am in search of my next car and volvo caught my eyes.
I am really new to volvo, but did little search on 850 forum.
What is the differences between 850 t5 and s70 t5?
Since s70 is later model, it has more feature?? or better quality?
What are the most known issue on s70?
I know pcv system and main seal leak are the known issue for 850....

Can anybody give me some advice, pros, cons, and information of s70?

Thank you.

 

no body?

 

The 98 S70 is basically a dressed- up 850. They are mechanically the same car. In 1999, the S70 got distributorless ignition, drive- by- wire throttle, and variable valve timing. The VVT and the drive by wire throttle are problem areas- particularly the drive by wire, which Volvo increased the warranty on to 10 years or 200,000 miles... however, 1999 models are now out of warranty, and 2000 models will be soon. The cost to repair that problem is usually very high- around $900 or so, and it's impossible to use a used part because it's a one- time program to the car. For these reasons, the 1998 S70 is seen as the "best" of the S70s. For those cars, the common issues are the same as for the 850- PCV system, rear main seal (IF you don't change the PCV system when it's necessary! otherwise, the seal is fine) Front strut mounts, lower control arms, and A/C Evaporator are common trouble spots for both the 850 and S70. So really, it's a question of personal taste- some people like the updated look of the S70, other people prefer the 850.

 

i have my 1999 T5 for 1 1/2 years now. These are the problems I encountered.

just before i got the car, the ABS module was replaced for $800, and it had new brake rotors/pads/calipers

Mandatory and major fixes
1) E-Brake wasn't working when I got it (car won't pass inspection without that) - $300
2) Turbo Control Valve problems (replaced TCV and hoses) - about $100 (installed myself)
3) Suspension failure. Both front control arms and tie rods, rear sway bar links - $700
4) Timing Belt (precautionary repair) - $300
total: $1400

Optional fixes I have come across
1) Broken front cupholders - $50 (pricey, but worth it)
2) New Tires - $450 (totally worth it)
3) Antenna mast - $15 (real pain to install)
4) Various light bulbs (interior and exterior) - $40
5) Gear selector sticking - free if you already have some WD-40
6) full tune-up upon purchase - about $30
total: $585
So in just over a year, I have put about $2,185 into my S70 T5 which I purchased for $4,200. I don't regret getting this car though. I knew that it was a volvo and would be reliable (it has NEVER refused to start), but when repairs are needed, they can be pricey. I suggest that before you make a decision, check out the car's service records. A well-maintained car will be much less likely to have problems. Plus, you can see if some common volvo problems have already been fixed.

Here are some things I love about my car:
1) It has the most comfortable seats in the world.
2) It's a great winter car. Everything is heated, from the seats to the mirrors. It is also very good in the snow.
3) It is a nice looking car. Volvos are certainly unique in every way possible. I would take my car over any honda civic, even brand new.
4) The T5 is a beast. Volvos are known for being sleepers (cars that are much faster than you would expect from looking at them)
5) The sound system is really great, better than my mom's new infiniti g37.
6) Volvoforums.com You will save a lot of money by fixing things yourself. You can come to this forum and get quick answers to many volvo issues.

Happy volvo hunting, and welcome to the forum

 

Thank you for the reply.
I am looking at 850r right now. If I can make a deal, then I will be the new owner of the car. We will see.
I will make sure looking at 1998 s70 t5 if the deal doesn't happen.
Thanks.