Jim, if you are planning on keeping the car 10 years and for many miles, don't use resale in your calculations. After 10+ years, it will be worth essentially nothing in $$ terms, although it may still be providing you with faithful transportation. Buy the car that suits you and your family best. As for reliability, this is a tough one because the new V70 is different than the one listed in Consumer Reports. But beware of any newly-introduced car, from any manufacturer. In my case (sample of one), my 1999 V70 with manual trans. has been almost flawless except for very minor items that the dealer has graciously fixed.