OK how about feedback from an actual owner of a 98 R wagon? I bought it from a lady in South Carolina last January with 43 K miles. Her only problem while she owned it was a vacuum leak. I have had no problems, and have modified the engine with IPD ECU and manual boost controller(and other stuff). I run 15 PSI and the HP is estimated by IPD @ 290-295. I own 3 Volvos, and have had to make a repair once in a while, but the cars are 8 & 10 years old. The AWD gives you handling advantages over FWD. Because the additional drivetrain weight is mostly torward the center & back, your car is better balanced. Also, unlike my 854 T FWD, I can power up earlier in the corner..no understeer or torque steer. I don't know how many times I had to back off throttle in my 854 T to keep the front wheels under controll. Also the R has larger diametor sway bars, lowered chassis, and stiffer suspension. I know it handles better than the FWD, because I own both.

As for all the AWD issues, guess what, most AWD cars have the same issues. Just make sure all tires are the same. Also keep up on maintainace, any exposed couplings will fail.

Have Fun

Wills
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98 R Wagon IPD ECU, 2.5 Dual Exhaust, Dawes MBC, 94 854 turbo, IPD Goodies, 92 740 Rag Wag