We are planning to buy either a V70 or XC70, model years 2000-2002. We live in the Willamette Valley in Oregon. Most of our driving is on I-5 or nearby highways. Snow is not a major concern in this area, although rain is. What are your opinions about the horsepower difference between these models? How about handling? Are there significant differences in the noise level? Any other noticeable differences? Does the XC70 have a third seat?

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.

Thanks for the information, especially regarding the valve stems. I will get a set for the V70 when I find one. My wife says that our 95 940 Sedan is underpowered compared to our Honda Accord. I'm thinking that we may get a V70 without the AWD, but haven't decided yet. My priorities for our next car are handling, power and safety. The only other car that I have found that combines those qualities is Mercedes. They are definitely out of our price range, especially when maintenance is factored in.

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.

Thanks for the information. We live in Silverton, which is about 1 hour south of Portland. I have been to ipd several times. Have gotten some great deals there. We currently own a 940 and had a 740.
I have read that it is important to watch tire wear on XC70's because of possible damage to AWD system in earlier models. We probably will go with a 2001 due to cost factor. 2002 may be out of our price range. Denfinitely will get one with a factory warranty, so older models will be out.
This will be our first turbo. Any sugesstions about maintenance? I have heard that short distance driving with a turbo is tough on them due to heat wearing them out. Seems like previous owner's habits are important. I put anti-sway bars on the 740 and really liked the change. How about the V70? Will it need that upgrade?

The XCs AWD system was the same from '98-'03 (changed for '03 on up models) SO if you're hoping to avoid any possible tire related AWD issues, you'ld want an '03 or newer.

The newer 70 series have had a lot of suspnsion changes made by
Volvo to make them more compliant then older 800 series. I'd drive
it for 6 months before changing anything since they seem to be getting
better in suspension with every year. 850's were downright harsh,
70 series are better and the 01 design has a stiffer chasis which allows
the suspension to be "softened up" while still providing good handling.

Turbo is very reliable. More reliable then many other engine components.
The turbo is liquid cooled and thermal stress is much reduced over
earlier turbo designs on the RWD models. Short drive cycles would cause
no more wear then they do on the engine or transmission. Newer turbo
designs are not really anything to be overly concerned about -- I'd be
more worried about the transmission or electronics then the turbo.