$2000 to spend on mods for an 850

[Alden]

#1 sounds like a great plan, but I might be personally more tempted to go with Koni adjustables instead. Then again, HD's might be better for cross... cross isn't my area of expertise. HD's also cost a bit less.

Lucky from ARD has also been doing some N/A tuning lately, he has a really interesting project going tuning a N/A 850: http://volvospeed.com/vs_forum/topic/16 ... rbo-build/

Looks like it's still a WIP, but when he's done he very well may be able to set you up an ECU with improved fuel/ignition maps -- He's a well respected tuner for sure. The OBX header he mentions looks like a neat piece, too: http://www.obxracingsports.com/products.php?pk=1839 -- but no good unless this is a dedicated track car, because if I understand cali laws properly you can't modify anything behind the last O2 sensor. If it's a track car, that header might be a nice addition to the exhaust. Lucky also knows what to do to delete the rear O2 sensor, allowing you to remove the cat while you're at it for even more exhaust flow / less weight.

Interesting build. I like those headers, and I can easily just switch them every two years for emissions test. My dad was talking about welding up a test pipe and throwing that on for autox and track days, which I think would be a good idea too.

[MilehighV70XC]

I dont know much about N/A Volvos but do track quite often my N/A '71 Datsun 240Z. Also drive in the mountains a lot with my XC and enjoy spirited driving.
Best thing I ever did was go to a HPDE (High Performance Driver Education) day at my local track.
I don't know your skill level, but the quickest way to lower your laps times is to learn how to drive properly on a track
As for the car
SS brake lines, high temp pads, good rotor blanks, brake cooling ducts, high temp brake fluid. I like ATE blue and orange, easy to tell when brakes are bled. You can cut a lot of time if you can shorten your braking distance.
You already have tires and springs,
Poly bushings,
Try and find an adjustable shock so you can dial in the proper dampening front and your.
Sway bars F&R, strut bars F&R, be carefull going to tight up front. The car already understeers from the factory and making the front to stiff will make it really want to push through corners. That's why and adjustable shock would be nice.
Exhuast from headers to tail pipe.
For and N/A that should be a fun car to drive.