General s/v/40, s/v/50 Question

[rmmagow]

I know nothing about these Volvos. I do own a V70 however. Are these Mazda based cars? Are they true Volvo's I like the V40 looks and don't mind working on cars. I am thinking to look for a good V40 or V50 for my wife or maybe for me. I'm trying to get a feel for these models. I never buy new and generally don't buy with much less than 100K showing. Both my wife and I like how the Volvo rides so another is in order.
Thanks

[fazool]

I had a 2005 S40. I loved it. It definitely FELT like Volvo - ergonomics an drivability.

Te serviceability is a little less Volvo-like IIRC