Hello, First of all thank you to all who have given of their time to post information about the 1999 S80 Volvo. It has helped tremendously.
I bought the car with 86,000 miles on it for $13,000. I traded my 92 Mercedes 300E with 200K on it and got 5K for it. So actual cash out of my pocket $9,000.
It is Silver and I tinted all windows even front.
I had the left front axle rebuilt.
I just had the cooling fan replaced under the recall.
I am at 100k miles now and will have the timing belt replaced along with thermostat and water pump.
I have the ticking noise so will also replace the oil pick up tube seals.
I will also replace the spring seats.
So now I will be left with a great car until the next repair.
Here is the reason why: Stay with me on this "Everyone's happiness is determined by how many positive emotions enjoyed" Some people play golf and love it, therefore ultimate joy. Now I definately don't have postivie emotions when the repairs are needed, but when it's done and I am driving down the road I enjoy the ride, I enjoy seeing my car parked when I come out of a store, or when someone is driving a similar model, I think, that car looks great. So after everything is said and down, I am overcoming the repairs but I think it's worth it. It would not be worth it if I paid $34,000 for it though.

Anyone mechanically inclined have any tips on changing the Oil pick up tube seals? Also changing the Spring Seats?
Thanks again to everyone on this message board.
Chris