bushleague,

Don't know about Audi. The auto jounalists are very impressed with the new ones.

Any Eurocar, loaded with equipment, is going to have ongoing maintenance costs. If you do most of the work yourself and buy parts on-line the expense will not be too great. If not, then you'd better have a deep pocket.

I think that we Vovlo owners tend to expect more and are more upset when our cars aren't perfect. Although far from perfect, my '98 S70 GLT has been a good car since the well known problems were sorted out-most under warranty. It did save my wife and me from serious injury when we were rear-ended by an SUV. And it could be restored to near factory condition.

At @65K miles it still looks new both inside and out. I hew strictly to the maintenance schedule and regularly tend to the interior and body.

If you like the "feel" of the 850/70 series cars you may be somewhat unsatisfied with some other marques. OTOH a well maintained car that isn't a lemon is always a joy to own and drive.

Good luck,

Bryan