I live just a bit north of you on Puget Sound, just across the Narrows from Tacoma. We just bought a 2000 V70 AWD. I also own a 92 960 wagon. My wife and kids like to go skiing so we had a set of chains for the 960 and that was the reason for going with the AWD. It eliminates the need for stopping when the signs say "traction devices required". We are happy with the vehicle. It is driven primarily around town, in the rain. Yes, the tire pressures need to be monitored. I just bought, for a big $13 at Schuck's, valve stems that show when the tire pressure falls below the required level. Speedwise the 960 wagon is still the fastest of the 3 Volvos I have. I haven't really stomped on the V70 yet but it is more than adequate to get on the freeway at 65 to 75. The extra noise is from the cleated tread pattern on the AWD type tires. It's still not bad. The car has adequate noise insulation to keep it from being loud. I am extremely comfortable knowing my wife and kids are in the AWD car with the rain we've had in the last 2 months. I did buy one with the Volvo warranty on it. That is a MUST. My 2 cents.

If you don't NEED AWD, don't get the XC.
The FWD turbo version will have more noticeable power due to 2 less driven wheels. The FWD version is also quieter, less problematic and cheaper to own, maintain in the long run. 3rd seats are a dealer installed, not a factory option and can be installed in either wagon.

2000 is still the old style...based on the 850 platform.

2001+ is based on the new p2 platform... structurally, much more rigid.

which are u looking for?

can't remember, but either 2002 or 2003, volvo introduced a new awd system that did not have the mechanical tendencies/problems that the original awd system had.

being a bit raised...the xc70 will feel much more tipsy toe... drove my brother's 2001 xc70... that car just feels huge... i had trouble cause i was not used to a raised car. power is adequate ... average power...will get form a to b. if u'r not power hungry, then it is good. handling will not be near as crisp as a regular v70. talk about some tall tires, they use 215-65-16 pzero scorpion tires (normal v70 use 195-65-15/205-55-16/235-45-17)...used for suv and lt... a plus being these will not require to be changed when snow season comes. being suv tires, these are actually quieter than i expected them to be. personally, it's not for me...but the xc70 fits my brother quite well in upstate ny.

not sure where willamette valley is, but if u'r not too far from portland, u might want to stop by ipd (www.ipdusa.com) and ask around. they are an aftermarket company... but they have had many years of experience on volvos...great people.