What to buy?

AlanS · Post by **AlanS** » 11 Mar 2011, 07:58

Well, I just inherited $14,000. I have a 1995 850 wagon that I have nursed since birth...188,000. It will only be a short time before it asks for more repairs ($$$). Thus, I think it best to put it out to pasture and start again with a 'newer' vehicle. At age 60, I do not want a new vehicle, as I don't have extra cash to spend, over the $14K. I have better things to do with my money (retirement?).
I need a wagon. My 850 gets about 20mpg, and I would love to see more. So, do I change to another auto maker? Do I just 'upgrade' into a newer Volvo? If Volvo? What is my best choice for a wagon, given the $14K here in NY? My other consideration was Subaru...but I find it hard to make that swap. Been driving Volvos since I could drive (144S, 240, P1800, 740, 760, 850, S40)...

Post by **priapism** » 11 Mar 2011, 08:10

One thing I've learned in the past year is that cheap cars aren't cheap. They nickel and dime you to death. What does your wagon need? Sometimes the known evil is better than an unknown.

Post by **boosted5cyl** » 11 Mar 2011, 08:29

Personally I'd probably get the 850 "refurbished" with whatever new body panels and parts it might need etc, then get it it converted to RWD and stick a 5/6speed coupled to a nifty modded T5.

But thats just me

Id rather have that than any new car on the market. Keep the stock look, no silly wings, skirts or any BS like that. By the time you are done, all the wearable items will be practically new anyway

/edit OK at 60 the suggestion I made above is not very useful probably. Perhaps a newer CPO volvo wagon?

AlanS · Post by **AlanS** » 11 Mar 2011, 08:32

priapism wrote:One thing I've learned in the past year is that cheap cars aren't cheap. They nickel and dime you to death. What does your wagon need? Sometimes the known evil is better than an unknown.

Well, at 188,000 it will need valve work (compression aint that great) and suspension work. I did the A/C evap, timing belt, tires, PCV, window swithes, ignition switch all last year (did the work myself- except tires). I fear the bottom of the engine will go at some point, as will the tranny- some weird stuff going on now with the tranny (even after a drain and fill).

cdnbluez · Post by **cdnbluez** » 11 Mar 2011, 09:29

Every used car will need some kind of repair. The reason I stay with used Volvo's is that I have developed certain relationships over the years, whether it be for parts or repairs, etc. Try and find a low mileage one owner 1998-2000 V70. Or, go for a 2004 and newer V70.

Post by **JRL** » 11 Mar 2011, 11:44

Perfect!
Buy this, https://www.matthewsvolvosite.com/forums ... =6&t=36009
I can guarantee you that you will not find a nicer one anywhere!
Hop the Amtrak, I'll pick you up at 30th st station in Philly, drive back to NY!
(Oh, bring a check)!

If you want to spend less, the 2000 XC SE I have with LOW(72K) miles may also work for you
Also in the classifieds here
Jim