P80 versus P2 Topic is solved

[Eddystone]

I have a friend who is looking at a P2 XC-70. I have resisted buying an AWD P80 for variety of reasons. At this point I know the P80 cars pretty well, and I would appreciate what P80 guys have to say about P2s as far as expected problems and relative reliability compared to P80s.

[June]

From a Volvo enthusiast who has had two P80s and two P2 cars, this is my opinion. The P2 has a more robust door open guide, a bit better handling, and my current 2004 P2 still has NO squeaks or rattles even after 186K of driving. My 98 V70 Cross Country was the worst with interior squeaks. I traded the V70 at four years old.

So far as my last service Volvo still stocks everything i have asked about for my P2. I asked about replacement wheels just today and they are still available for my 2004 S80. I have read tons of posts on here about critical Volvo Blue Box parts like axles, and racks being discontinued for P80. P80's are getting older so that's only natural. Also P2 cars must be more plentiful in the salvage yards for parts that route. At any rate I think parts availability is critical for a old AWD Volvo.

As far as my P2, its been the usual axles and control arms at 100K, and the rest of the suspension and radiator with all hoses at 140K. I understand this is common on P2 cars at those miles. Really I like the way my P2 drives better than the current platform Volvo is using. June

[scot850]

The P2 (S80) may drive better but our 06 XC70 handling is not as good as any of my P80's. Front suspension is clunky. If you like your comfort then the P80 seats are better.

Otherwise, the P2 is a mostly decent car. Try to avoid the adjustable suspension if possible unless it has already been replaced as it is expensive.

Electronic bugs are harder to fix on P2's but thankfully so far they have been few. Still have to fix the back-up sensors. June is correct in that the P2 is better screwed together.

Either way buy on quality of car and mostly on maintenance records. Check trans has been serviced (Volvo all that an optional service at 50,000 miles) but no pressure flush. Also check if the Haldex AWD system has been serviced and filter changed.

Finally check the key fobs work. They are prone to failure.

Good luck.

Neil.

[erikv11]

I've owned a P2 for 2-1/2 years now, we have put on 30k miles so only sees light usage. Reliability very similar to my fleet of P80 cars - I've had a few quirky things break (brake booster pump, both cam solenoids) otherwise only routine maintenance stuff: bulbs, fluids, filters, brakes. Current mileage 160k. Front struts were replaced right before I got it, rears will need done soon. Haven't had to touch the suspension parts, but I'm watching them. AWD was non-functional (!) when I bought it (angle gear) and I'm going to leave it that way, I think. AWD is more reliable in the P2 but still requires some attention, not worth it IMO. Snows and FWD is a superb combo. Ride is better in the P2 but seats are better in the P80.

You must have a VIDA-DICE setup if you are going to own and maintain a P2; fortunately this is cheap and easy to get.

I wouldn't touch a P80 AWD car at this point in time.

[Rattnalle]

Personally I think the P2s are objectively better cars in every way. They feel like modern cars to drive while the P80s show their age. Actually driving them isn't too different but comfort is better in the P2s and that includes the seats which in my opinion are much better.

However I wouldn't get any of them in their awd versions. Extra weight and extra maintenance for almost nothing. And yes I live where there are actual winters but proper tyres are a much better way to deal with that.