The wife and I have owned Volvos for the last 33 years - all RWD so far. The current wifemobile, a 1990 740 with 180,000 miles, has served us well but is starting to look a bit rough both inside and out. Mechanically it could use some drive train repairs to return it to a smooth, quiet cruiser again. Also, a couple minor problems under the hood recently have caused some no-starts and the wife is becoming skeptical about it's reliability (although those seem to be cured now). Bottom line - - she's starting to check out newer cars.

A modern-day replacement to the 740 appears to be the S80 non-turbo. But I hear some unfavorable opinions about that car. Seriously, what's up with the S80? Is it nothing but trouble? Is it OK if you avoid certain years? What types of issues can be expected?

I'm able to perform nearly all the required wrenching on the 740. Would I be held ransom by the mechanics if I owned an S80?

I'd appreciate any comments, opinions, and advice.