Emissions venting systems ... PVC, or flametraps as they are known in the Volvo world are important on all cars. With the v series a clogged system will result in blown engine seals and a very expensive job. Also look out for electo mechanical problems ..... windows and controllers, power mirrors. Headlight switches. Some 70's ... my '98 for sure go thru a headlight lamp about every 3 months due to high voltage. Also tie rod ends wear out frequently and front tires as well due to weight ratio front to rear. Consider leasing a new one and then getting rid of it ... may be cheaper.

The FWD are different than the RWD. But still a Volvo, so that means you need to do your own work or go quickly broke.
Make sure the AC is ICE COLD, replacing a leaky evaporator is as bad as a 240 heater core. About $1500 at the dealer. A heater core can be done in a few hours at home.
Check the tranny fluid, the V70s are fairly good but they still need a good flush about every 60K.
The environmentally friendly plastics Volvo puts in the engine bay tend to have a lifespan of 10 years.
Make sure you have service history! And read it before you make an offer.

Klaus
--
1995 854T and 1998 V70R

Well, I am no expert but have owned a 96 850 Turbo and currently, a 2000 V70 (NA) and have some (humble) opinions.

1. The five cylender engine is reliable and strong and has a nice throaty growl. The Turbo model I had was a rocket. The NA model I now have is plenty peppy. Handling is great either way. (e.g. RWD vehicles have a tighter turning radius - the difference is pretty noticable, but not a big deal)

2. Though mine had only 104K and 88K on them, this site and others are full of posters who have high mileage and a lot of knowledge and support for you.

3. In my limited experience, the main problem I have encountered is failing ABS controllers. It is often said, it's not if it will fail, but when. When it does - look up Vic Rocha for a $150 rebuild. He has an excellent reputation - lots of fans here and elsewhere. Most FWD vehicles eat up front pads and rotars - no different for the Volvo - depends on your driving style.

4. For the 2000 you are looking at, you will be entering the world of OBDII. Which means Check Engine Light error codes and lots of emissions related sensors that fail or cause various problems. This isn't just a Volvo thing, it's just part of owning any post 96 vehicle. Most of this stuff is pretty accessible to the DIYers. You can buy a code reader anywhere $50 - $150 (Klaus recently posted a link showing how to build a $5.00 reader)

Anyway, just a few (humble) opinions I've formed over the years.

Good luck!

Calvin (2000 V70 88K)
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