Just bought a 1999 V70 XC in mint shape but with 99,000 miles. Just had the timing belt replaced as a precaution and the shop (Volvos only and very reputable) said everything else checked out fine - they essentially performed a 70k service. I have a P0455 ODBII code which they said was the gas cap but the light soon came back on after leaving the shop.

The car runs smoothly, quietly and gives no indication of any problems but...

On the highway, when I step on the accelerator to pass at speed, the car seems a little sluggish or perhaps labored and doesn't really accelerate much. The tranny downshifts smoothly and correctly and there is no hesitation in the engine. It just doesn't really pick up speed.

I'm not sure if this underpoweredness or lack of "umph" is normal for an XC. Is that the case or do I have some other possible problem? Again, it starts, idles and drives around town wonderfully.

Thanks for your input!
Dean - a proud Volvo newby!