I know this question has been asked several times. I've read some of the replies about common probs and solutions. I guess I'm looking for value opinions and thoughts on what I can do to evaluate this car before buying it. There is a '96 850 Wagon I'm looking at that has just over 100,000 mi on the odometer and is avail. for about CDN$12,000, or around US$8,000. It comes with winter and summer tires all in very good shape. I know the A/C doesn't work (evaporator) and the timing belt was changed in the last two years. The car has had regular maintenance and has been given the once over by a local independent Volvo mech. He says it's tight. I can do most minor repairs and am not too worried about a vehicle that occasionally needs attention. Our present car is a Camry wagon with about 440,000 km (275,000 mi) on it. I expect the Volvo to require more maintenance than the Toyota but I don't want a car that is likely to shut down on a long trip with our 6 month old in the back seat.

Thanks for your thoughts.

Graham