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Need Some Advice 850 1996

posted by  someone claiming to be sandpiper on  Fri Dec 22 20:57 CST 2000 [RELATED]

A tractor-trailer did a hit and run at highway speed this AM while my wife was driving. As a testament to Volvo enginnering, she walked away with only bumps and bruises from a near head-on with the opposing guard rail. Currently we are awaiting whether or not the insurance is goig to total the wagon. It had 120k miles on a base 855 with the cold weather package option.

The advice I am seeking is related to buying a used 855. The question is should I consider a turbo version or the same non-turbo version that is a potential total loss? I know this can be very opinionated question, but I am looking at this from a longevity standpoint rather than performance.







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    Re: Need Some Advice 850 1996

    posted by  someone claiming to be John O on  Sat Dec 23 02:50 CST 2000 [RELATED]

    The turbo 850s lifespan is no less than the normally asperated version from what I've seen, so I'd opt for the turbo car.

    The few added inconveniences (problems) that may occur aren't costly to repair when the problems arise, like vacuum hoses and the turbo drain tube o-ring (the most common turbo related problems I see).







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    Re: Need Some Advice 850 1996

    posted by  someone claiming to be Uncle Olaf on  Sat Dec 23 02:45 CST 2000 [RELATED]

    Odd coincidence. I was run off the road earlier this week. Not a total loss, but I'll be without my "baby" for a few weeks. Amazingly, the Volvo was drivable afterwards. Glad your wife is OK and hope she got the perp's number. I didn't.

    In terms of turbo vs. naturally aspirated, I think the turbo provides an extra margin of safety on acceleration ramps. Since you're "on boost" less than 1% of the time (unless you drive like Mika Hakkinen) the additional wear-and-tear on the drivetrain is minimal.

    My $0.02.

    -Uncle Olaf







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      Re: Need Some Advice 850 1996

      posted by  someone claiming to be sandpiper on  Sun Dec 24 03:17 CST 2000 [RELATED]

      As my research continues into the pre-owned market, it seems that I may be better off with an 855 rather than a v70. I really enjoy the 855, but I do not know the significance in the differences between the 8555 and the v70. I have found some 855 GLTs that offer some possibilities.

      Any other additional insights, hindsights or warnings would be greatly appreciated.

      My wife continues to be sore from her ordeal, but the perp for the whole incident is long gone. Still waiting for the insurance company's decision. That could take 'til the end of the week.







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        Re: Consider insurance cost 850 1997

        posted by  someone claiming to be Landin on  Tue Dec 26 04:37 CST 2000 [RELATED]

        If overall cost is a factor, check to see how much more insurance is per year. I have the LPT and actually wish I had the non-turbo just because of the extra insurance cost (and the little extra you pay for most services) because I am a frugal, prudent buyer (aka cheapskate).






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