After many years of owning Volvo 740's,780's 940's, some converted to V8 cars, I am now considering an 850 sedan for my wife.
I am familiar with these cars,(my sister has a nice 1996 850), but would like some input from those who have owned 850's for a period of time and work on their own cars.
I do 90% of repairs on my vehicles.
Any way. Are there better than others when it comes to the mid 90's cars ? From what I have seen advertised, my price range puts me in the 1995-1997 850 segment.
Are the turbo cars as reliable as the non-turbo cars?
What ever you would like to share information wise would be helpful.
Thanks in advance.

I own a 97 non-turbo...Overall the car has been good to me. It recently gave me a fit, with the rear seal going. Other than that, everything has been fine with the vehicle. I do most of the maintenance and its pretty straight forward. Compared to my last 240 I owned, I like the 850 much better. My only advise is to go with the turbo. I didn't, but I sure wish I would have.

Best of luck.

Don

I currently own a 97 850-R from new, and now has 71000 miles. It has been a very nice car to own and I do 90% of my own maintenance. I also stick to the maintenance guide. I run synthetic oil 5w-30 winter and 10w-30 summer on advice from a Volvo mechanic because it doesn't break down like dino, and I don't abuse the car.

The only problems I have had--the temperature sensor on heater control and the drivers seat heater--were fixed under warranty. I just replaced the antenna and a headlamp lens--piece of cake for each one, $19 and $75.

I don't have any add-ons like some people do, which I guess helps to keep problems from surfacing. I am amazed at the fact that the more add-ons I hear people put on their vehicles, the more problems associated with them.

I expect that problems will start surfacing very soon given that the car is getting up in mileage--you know, the nickel and dime phase.

Overall it is a nice car--paid for since 99 and cheap to run--just insurance, gas, and plates.

Rick in Denver

I have owned a '95 850 glt and currently own an '97 850 glt. The '97 model has the light pressure turbo. I highly recommend the turbo. Drive them both and you will know right away. I have not had any trouble with my turbo. Not many posts on turbo repairs here either. Just wastegate adjustment stuff. My '97 has the climate control, one touch moon roof, center console is smaller, different seat style. The '95 model was more trouble than the '97. I totaled the '95 or perhaps I would still own it otherwise.

Bird