I am looking at a 99 v70 base model w/alum wheels and leather interior. It is very clean w/65,000 miles. The owner will take $12,500. I am new to Volvos and wanted to know if this is a good deal and how reliable this model is. thanks for any help. I am going to have a mechanic inspect friday.

We have a base 99 v70 with around 60k. It's been a great car. If the mechanic says it's Ok, I'd go for it. Sounds like a good price to me.

The GLT does have more pep, but the base engine does well enough and gets pretty decent mileage.

Miles are a little high, but still sounds like a good deal for the $. Since you are getting it for such a low price, you should really consider an extended warranty. Extended warranties are necessary on all these newer high end cars. Volvo, Saab, BMW Mercedes, etc., it doesn't matter. They all suffer the same types of problems and failures. (Only some of the Japanese high end cars are better, they have a more localized and captured source for such parts. This increases their QC.)

Also, refer to some of the other responses for what to look for. Front and back torsion bars are common broken parts at that mileage.

You didn't say what part of country you're from, east coast?

In Chicago, I was offered $17k for my "98 GLT (58k miles)last June from a Mercedes dealer. I was considering a E320 wagon. I think you're getting a good deal with the leather and alloy package. Overall, I have had a good experience with my car. I would buy it again. I have repaired a few things i.e. a door lock, ignition key lock, auto climate control belt tensioner and a trans. (see "BURNING SMELL" posting on 2-20-03 for info) The car is expensive to repair, when it's out of warrenty, at $95 hr labor rates, cost adds up fast.

Things to consider:
1. Get the repair service history..a must!
2. Recommended 70K mile timing belt replacement...CHGO. cost is $700
3. V70 base and GLT models are rated highest by consumer reports magazine
4. Tires...a good set of Continentals will cost $700
5. Big car low power in the base model.
6. Not a common SUV, sport wagans are cool.
7. Very versatile! that's what the "V" means in V70!
8. Not AWD just front wheel, still drives great in the snow.

Good luck,

Maya "98" V70 GLT 67k
"89" 245 DL 112k

I'd do a bit more reading on this if I were you. I think you may want to go with at least a GLT. Base model is only rated at 167 hp or so. Test drive a GLT and see if you notice a difference. My guess is that you will.
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98 V70 AWD, IPD ECU, K&N, Volvo FSB, Dunlop SP5000, IPD Sport Spring

That seems like a good deal. My brother has a base model V70 98 model and he has had if for about a year and a half and loves it. He hasn't had any problems with it so far. Make sure it hasn't been in a wreck, run a carfax and check for leaks. Go for it!

93 240 wagon with 132k

We have a '99 GLT, 52,000 GREAT car, '01 T5 SUPER car. Any car is expensive to maintain today. Agree, try a GLT for comparison but, the 168HP is probably adequate.
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Do Not Go Gently...