A '98 AWD V70R just came up for sale locally. Always liked that car - but am gunshy b/c of the failure of the Electronic Throttle Control Module on my '00 V70XC. Does the V70R use the same system or the tried and true cable-based throttle system?

I haven't seen any posts regarding this failure on AWD V70Rs and I'm not sure whether it is b/c they use a different system or if there are simply fewer of them, so you don't hear about it as much. Thanks!

-Dave

Just a heads-up on Volvos early AWD system however, they too are known for tire related AWD issues until the newer computer controlled Haldex AWD system arrived in '03 ('02 for AWD S60s).
Do a search here on "bevel gears" as if and when one goes, it's major $$$ (worse than ETMs).
Not trying to rain on your parade but people should be aware of a few things before spending major money IMO.

BTW, the very best Volvos were the older 4 cyl red engine RWDs and Volvo no longer makes cars like that anymore, sadly.

Thanks a lot on the heads up - MUCH appreciated. I have researched that issue and if I take the plunge, this time I'm going in with eyes wide open. Tread depth, tire pressure, rotation, replacing all four at the same time, no mixing/matching tires, color of gear oil . . . yeesh I'm talking myself right out of it.

I agree with you btw, the best were the bullet proof (literally) red engine bricks.

My 98 S70 T5 uses the old cable to the throttle. I think the 98's
did not see many powertrain changes compared to 97s. In 99 they
introduced electronic throttle, variable valve timing, and 5 speed
automatics. I suspect Volvo needed to get the 70 series out the door
so the first year had fewer engine changes.

No. the 98 uses a standard throttle body wot a throttle position switch, its not an E.T.M.