Hey guys,

Looking for your opinions here. I currently own a 2010 XC90 3.2 with just under 100k miles. I absolutely love it except the power and fuel economy of the 3.2. I recently discovered a low mileage under (60k) 2007 V8 Sport that looks as though it is in great condition. I am thinking of purchasing that and selling my 3.2. I also own a small boat and I think the V8 might also handle that better. I have never owned the V8 though so I guess would you guys make the move? Is the V8 really that much more powerful and fun to drive? I have heard the gas mileage is very similar and maybe even a bit better on the V8. I guess I am thinking...if you were in my situation would you make the switch knowing that financially it is almost an even swap? Any opinions are welcome. Thanks guys!!

 

Anyone have any thoughts?

 

The V8 will be more powerful and have a higher towing capacity but will get about 2 MPGs less than the 3.2. The V8 has a timing chain so there's no timing belt service at 10 years/120K. The 2010 is 3 years newer and each year cars get more reliable - maybe the lower miles will make this a wash. I'd suspect the V8 will cost more to maintain in the long term just being a V8. Not sure if you live in state with sales tax on cars but that may be another 5-8% to factor into the purchase price, but you may actually get a break on insurance giving the 2007s lower book value. The 3.2 does have a fairly high towing capacity (3900 lbs?) vs most SUVs so the V8s advantage may be dependent on how big a boat/trailer you expect to tow. Finally is there's a risk in buying a used car if you don't know the full service history. At least on your 3.2 you know what's been done and what if anything is needed.

 

Thank you so much for your reply it is good to consider some of these things that I haven't thought about. I am kinda leaning towards just keeping the 3.2, even though it is higher mileage, I have had good maintenance on it and you are right I know what it needs. I also was not considering sales tax and yes my state would definitely do that for sure...thank you for noting that. Sometimes you get excited at the possibility and forget rational thinking like this!