I'm in the market for a new(ish) car, and came across a 1998 V70 R AWD for $7,200. I originally wanted something like a 2002 jetta/passat or similar car, but I currently have a 760 turbo wagon and realized how much I'd miss the ability to haul large items and whatnot. Are the first year model V70s, or V70 R to be exact, good, reliable cars? I read some reviews saying the R's suspension makes for a rough ride and it can have some troubles. The car im looking at has every option minus the 3rd seat, and 118,000 miles. There is another 1998 V70 R for $200 cheaper, but has 150,000 miles, and is a color combo I dont like (silver on black with wood accents - the one im looking at is black on black with silver accents)

Do any of you recommend/dont recommend buying it? Thanks

 

I have a 1998 V70 T5 with 154k on it and I LOVE IT!!! The ride is a little smoother than an "R" as it is 2wd vs awd. Some of the things to look for before purchasing the vehicle are the ball joints, control arms, and tie rods, because they arequite priceyfor these models. Also check to see when the last time the timing belt was changed. As farthe whole"this is the first year of this model" goes, it's really the same exact caras the 850s,with some mostly cosmetic interior and exterior design changes. The guts are essentially the same.

I would buy it over a Jetta anyday. Of course, I would buy almost anything over a Jetta. Ask any mechanic who has had to work on one.........

 

That's an interesting question - I actually had a 2001 Jetta VR6 which I sold to purchase our 99 V70 GLT. I liked the interior styling and handling of the Jetta more than the Volvo, but the storage capacity is much better in the Volvo. We were having a lot of trouble cramming our son into his car seat in the back of the Jetta and actually had our seats pushed farther forward than comfortable, but in the Volvo we've got plenty of room (we can even visualize having two car seats in there). The trunk of the Jetta just barely held the stroller and we could slide some other things around it, but now in the Volvo we have room for the stroller and about three or four suitcases.

As for working on it, there's definitely more space in the engine compartment of the Volvo. Luckily, the Jetta was in great shape (only about 70K miles) so I didn't have to do much, but just changing the spark plug wires was annoying since they weaved through a plastic casing that concealed the engine. I've done a lot more work in the older and more aged (165K miles) Volvo, but it's been fairly pleasant - especially with this great resource (this forum).

Also, as for power and handling, I think the Jetta VR6 felt a bit faster, mostly due to the lighter weight and was able to take turns a bit better, but the Volvo definitely surprised me in the power category.

Good luck...

 

My son has a 98 V70 R and his wife and little baby love it. My son get to drive when they are with him and that's about the only time. 98 is probably the best year too.

 

Oh, yeah, take the Volvo over VW Jetta. My daughter had a Jetta that fell apart too soon.

 

I will have to disagree about '98 being the best year.

'00 has better bottom end on engine (bigger rods)
'00 has larger engine (and 19T turbo)
'00 has more HP
'00 has more TQ
'00 has vented rear rotors
'00 has larger front rotors
'00 has 5spd auto, instead of 4spd
'00 has brushed aluminum interior trim
'00 has factory dual exhaust
'00 has nicer wheels

Just my $.02

 

The shop that services my two Volvos say they cringe when ever older V70 awd's come in for repair. They say the AWD systems are difficult to work on and parts prices are outrageous. It doesn't take to much run up a $3,000 or more repair bill. That is probaly why many of the "buy here-pay here" used car dealers around here ( northern NY) have 98 and 99 X-Countries on thier lots

 

'00 has a manual transmission option???

Nick