NorEast,

I just got done putting a reply to your query under the XC category. Yes, I would buy the car. I've never owned the models you mentioned, 140, 240 and 940. Based upon what I've read at this website, the XC may not be a trouble free as those cars or as easy to FIY. But what I have heard from people who have gone from the older Volvos you've mention to the FWD Volvos and the AWD Volvos, is that they handle better, are more comfortable and are more fun to drive.

I think probably a good idea would be to get an extended warranty. That way, should anything expensive go on the car, you'll be covered. One thing about Volvos, and you really can't put a price tag on this, is they are incredibly safe cars. They will probably save your life and those you care about, than lets say one of the Asian or even domestic manufacturers. That's why I bought my father-in-law a used '99 XC in 1999. At that time, my wife and I both drove '96 850 wagons with 5 speeds. Her's was purchased new, and mine was purchased used. As an aside, she has 230,000 miles on hers now and I have 170,000. Both cars have been reliable, and mine probable saved my life, or prevented me from being seriously injured when I got "t-boned" right by the driver's door. I got the car repaired, and I'm still driving it.

Anyway, getting back to my father-in-law, he was driving an 1986 Toyota Corolla wagon with AWD. It was a great car. But he took care of our infant daughters at the time, and it bothered me, that my wife and I were driving around in Volvos, and he along with our daughters were in a small Toyota. Hence the purchase.

You'll like the XC. Just keep up on the maintenance, and you'll be "OK". Thanks again for the leads on the two Volvo salvage yards. Hopefully I'll be able to save a boat load of money, instead of being forced to buy a new booster seat. Good Luck to you!

Hugh