Well, I just got back from Roger Beasley Volvo in Austin with the new daily driver. She's in her new stable at the casa here in Boerne. No major hickup's....just the occasional "click" sound coming from the front end when I hit a bump. I'm suspecting worn tower bushings and/or cv joints? When I had it on the lift before I inked the deal, I didn't notice anything worn on the suspension. I also didn't hear these noises when I took it on a lengthy test drive....of course, no bumpy roads near the dealership (go figure).
Other than that, the car rides and handles tight..better than my iPD equipped 740GL. Wow, what a huge difference between the two! The T5 just feels so amazing in power and handling. The highway drive was awesome...the seats have to be the very best in the industry....I've never sat in anything so comfortable! Once I figure out where the noise is coming from...I'll be calling my friend Ken over at iPD to hook me up with some parts. I have an independent shop (within walking distance from my house) install the parts I provide as well as do the "big jobs". I just don't have the time.....but I think I want to change that...I really want to know how to work on these cars. It doesn't look all that complicated. I have tools and a lot of garage space.
At any rate...I'm keeping my finger's crossed that the T5 treats me as good as the trusty ol' 740 brick. I really love my redblock, but couldn't justify putting $4,500 + in it to make it perfect (1990 with 280K on the clock). I want to keep the car though....there's just something about that car that won't let me part with it! Torn drivers seat, clangy sounding engine when it's cold, and that little drip it leaves on the driveway makes it unique. It's always started and got me there and back. Just gotta' keep the wife from killing me with all these vehicles I have in the garage and driveway!