I already posted this in the opinions forum, but I thought I might get more responses here...I hope that posting the same message twice that isn't a major forum faux pas. :)

I am really interested in buying a Volvo, but some of my family members work for General Motors, so every car I've ever owned has been a GM. To be honest, I've had very good luck with my previous cars (a Buick and an Oldsmobile), but I still have that urge for a Volvo! The problem is, I don't know anything about them, nor am I particularly mechanically inclined.
The Mercedes dealership here (there's no Volvo dealership within 60 miles) has an 850 GLT (1997) with 68,000 miles. Their asking price is $14995, but I think they will lower that price a bit.
What's your opinion on this model? How expensive are the repairs and how difficult is it to find a good independent mechanic? I don't live in a cold climate, nor do I live near the coast, so I don't have to worry too much about freezing temperatures or salty water.
I would really appreciate your advice!
Thanks,
Jessi
me_227@hotmail.com

Check maintenance records. At 68K, you are coming up on timing belt at 70K. Most expensive items to check would be transmission and a/c. Ask people driving old, nice looking Volvos where they have their cars repaired. It may be the dealer or it may be an independent shop that knows Volvos. Take it there and have it gone over. Then check edmunds or some other site and pay no more than wholesale.

if u're going for glt, definitely 97 or later, because of the light-pressured turbo engine. check www.kbb.com or edmunds for idea on how much that car costs. double check ac (expensive to fix, yet know to break on 850), suspension for noise, and interior cabin for excessive rattles and knocks (really annoying sometimes, dash, sunroof, rear "boom-box" cargo area)