Looks like she wants a Volvo

AlanS · Post by **AlanS** » 12 Apr 2010, 13:37

Went to look at Subaru and Honda this weekend. Looks like the wife still wants a Volvo... Pre-owned. I just fear that the 'newer' Volvos won't have the lifespan of my older ones. Anyways, she wants a sedan...We have an S40, too small, a tad cheaply built...tinny doors, etc. The S80- too much car. So that leaves her with the S60.
What year? What to look for, what to avoid? Any real- world MPG on this thing? Premium fuel, I presume.
Feedback, if you would.

Post by **jblackburn** » 15 Apr 2010, 08:00

Year? 2003 or newer. Do NOT even consider a 2001 model. Fuel economy is a little better than the S/V70 due to a bit of engine management tinkering. Most report upwards of 30 mpg with N/A models on the highway, 28-29 with turbo models, and 19+ around town with either. I run 89 in my T5, you will be just fine with mid-grade, but don't use regular fuel.

Typical things to look for include smoking PCV system, trans. fluid color and level, smooth shifting, and listen for any clunking or strange tire wear from the front suspension. Any of these cars can be knocked out of alignment fairly easily, but it can also indicate other problems with the suspension parts.

otis44 · Post by **otis44** » 15 Apr 2010, 08:23

I concur with jackblackburn, definitely 03 or newer. There are not alot of differences in these cars from 03-09 other than cosmetic changes. In 05 they went to painted moldings on the exterior of the car, which look alot better in my opinion. I've had several of these cars (I don't keep a car for too long for some reason) and I seem to favor the 05 and 06 models. I would consider the turbo models, the n/a is a bit of a dog but you will see a gain in fuel mileage as mentioned above. If you're looking around drive the T5 model, quite a bit peppier than the 2.5T with none of the AWD worries of the R. The T5 typically came with the sport seats which are more comfortable than those found in the 2.5T or n/a as well.

I don't know what you're looking for exactly, but it appears there are quite a few of the later models coming off lease and looks like there are some good deals to be had. The only drawbacks to this car I can find are; the turning radius is horrible, the back seat is quite small, and the radio controls can take some getting used to. Other than that, buy one that has been well maintained, maintain it well yourself and you will enjoy it.