Do V70's have more or less problems than 850's

[Ozark Lee]

I think the sentiment is pretty much the same. The 70 series has perhaps a bit fewer problems (up to '99) but they are different. I've never had a 70 series odometer die and that has happened on all of my 850s. The dash pad doesn't have the same peeling issues at the airbag but all of the interior door panels bubble. '99 and '00 versions have their own set of problems and are more trouble than 850s.

It is much like an Italian acquaintance told me when I was in Rome a few years ago about the Italian government after an election. Its not better, its not worse, its just different.

...Lee

[j-dawg]

If you have an aversion to scraped knuckles and cursing, pass on the turbo. Vacuum and coolant lines on the turbo cars are like termites in the engine bay: they pop up everywhere unexpectedly, and every time you see one you decide it's time to sell, because you're getting too old for this.

[abscate]

Buy extra shoes if you get a turbo manual, they keep flying off...

[bill d cat]

I think it probably depends on the V70 and the 850. 850s and SVC70s are 15-22 year old cars now.

There are V70s that have more or less problems than 850s.

[precopster]

A non turbo ETM in a 99 or 00 P80 can be swapped out in 5 minutes; no kidding. If you buy one with the wrong programming so what, just swap it out again. A turbo ETM takes hours and scraped knuckles. If you buy a used one with the wrong programming it hurts to swap it out again.

If you're into replacing vacuum lines and searching for turbo related problems such as intercooler leaks, boost sensors and TCVs then a turbo may just be up your alley. Otherwise stick to a non turbo, especially if you pay a mechanic. If you DIY a turbo is not an awful idea, just less time enjoying life.

[j-dawg]

I'm torn on whether the turbo is a good thing to have, on balance. The insurance and gas costs are marginally higher if at all, and they're worth it for the turbo noises alone. I don't get into boost often, but it's fun times when I do.

Really the only downside is the difficulty of maintenance, but that feels like a pretty big downside when you're ten fingers deep in engine bay grime, surprise coolant, and your own blood.

[erikv11]

Turbos are definitely more hassle to maintain. I would say if you are willing to replace right away all of the cooling and vacuum lines, and the intercooler hoses, so that you are good on those from the gate, then the turbo is overall much more enjoyable than the non-turbo. Pretty much what j-dawg is saying, I think.

[mecheng]

Interior on 850 is higher quality than S70, speaking from experience. Previous posts cover the issues. Some of the 'improvements' they made were simply cost improvements for Volvo. Mechanically, virtually identical except somewhat smoother ride in the S70 so I would buy the one in better condition/lower mileage.

Yes the Turbo is more complex but it is very reliable overall. It has two extra cooling hoses you should replace; big deal. As for all the vacuum hoses, if you have no codes and the car runs okay there is no issue. If one hose blows, so what, you can still drive the car. Some of the hoses may look old but still function fine. I replaced all my turbo control hoses because they looked old and dry but they had no holes, and they are quite thick. In retrospect it was a waste of time but thats what enthusaists do with cars.

I personally think the performance improvement is worth it. The LPT is a rocket in town, and the HPT is a rocket when its moving.

[erikv11]

Another thing about the vacuum lines: replacing them all at once is super cheap, and gives you a thorough tour of the engine bay.

Oh and the turbo oil drain return line gasket, that's another one to do right off the bat.

Performance difference is huge, agreed.

[cmblackburn]

Get a 98 V70. It's an 850 under the hood and a V70 everywhere else.