The later in the series the better. For example a 2000 or 1999 S70 are good choices (except for the ETS) or 1998 S90. Volvos have always improved the cars from year to year so the last years are better. Stay away from 1993 850s many improvements in 1994 and much more reliable. If you want to saty away from the ETS go for a 1998 850. My wife has a 1999 and so far so good, the ETS prbolem has not shown up so far but I'm keeping the fingers and toes crossed. I have a 1998 S90 and the car is great except for the rear shocks that according to the board suck, the fronts are better but not much. I prefer the rear wheel drive cars so that's why the S90. I could have bought a 1999 S80 for less. That's because the first year for the S80 was another to stay away from. My friend has a S60 again the first year 2001 and he has not been very happy. Mind you he bought it new and it was his first new car so maybe his expectations were too high. but again the first year cars seem to be the problem children. I've owned seven Volvos so far and have been happy with them all but I never had a first year car!