Hi all,

I learned to drive in my dad's s60 and my mom's v70. Once I got my license, I drove a Ford Probe for about 3 months and once that died I bought a '95 Jeep XJ and have been driving that for over a year. However, it has over 220k miles on the motor and is beginning to break down. I was an avid off roader and loved trail riding. Unfortunately, I am in college now and I do not have the money to make repairs to the Jeep. I love Volvos and am now considering buying a v70 XC. Yes, I know its not an offroad vehicle but exactly how far off the pavement can I go? How well do they do on gas? I like to go fast, how fast are these cars? What sort of upgrades (performance and visual) can I do to give it some attitude for cheap? In the long run, is buying a v70 XC a wise investment? Thanks.

 

Hello, If you want fast, get an "R". The amount you go off-road is dictated by ground clearance and suspension travel. Mods for a Volvo focus on mapping and breathing. A V70 XC is not a wise expenditure for someone who cannot afford to make repairs on a Jeep. The word "investment" doesn't apply to this kind of driving. Punishment, abuse and repair are the order of the day here. Honestly, you need something like a Ramcharger or a trailed out Wrangler. Silly college student, visual stuff is for kids. Kira