I am interested in a used 1998 volvo 965 station wagon and would like to know if anyone out there has had any experience with this model. Any responses would be appreciated, at present my car is a 1990 740 turbo wagon.

Okay guys, all the info given was much appreciated now let me ask one more question, what would the purchase of a 1998 v90 hold in store for me??

Well, I remember reading on here in the past that the 1998s had an upgraded fuel injection from the previous six years, so you're best off with a 1998. The person who wrote that you will need to do lots of maintenance is probably correct, although it depends on the mileage of your car. But, it is also true that the car is very much subject to age deterioration as opposed to mileage deterioration. It's weird like that; I'm replacing nearly everything I hear and/or feel is bad with my 1993 965 but I have a feeling that is going to get old very soon, since the car is just not worth very much.

But, it is absolutely the nicest of the RWD volvos. If you don't want it, let me know where you are, as I covet a 1998 V90... (hope wife isn't listening)
--
1991 745 & 1993 965 /// RIP: 86 764T; 79 262C

I have a 92-960 and I love it...but...you'd better go and buy a used Toyota Corolla, 30 MPG, never breaks, just gas, oil and tires...you'll be happier.

unless you are very handy with tools and have an aptitude for auto repair OR deep pockets you are willing to use to keep up this ballerina...........DON'T!

Make sure the car has been kept up and all maintenance is up to the factory schedule. These cars are not happy with neglected maintenance. Make sure the timing belt has been changed at the required interval. It breaks you have a $2000 bill looking at you.
Fuel mileage is 15-16 mpg city and upwards of 28-29 mph can be had on the highway at 65 mph.
The other side is these are probably the finest cars Volvo ever built.
This is a luxury car not a beater. It has lots of electrical toys that are wonderful. But when one of those toys break so does your bank account. This not a car you want to rely on the dealer for up keep. You have a 10 year or older car on your hand and things break more due to time then use. If I didn't have a Volvo independent shop that charges 1/2 the dealer I would not have bought my 97 960. Although it has been reasonable to keep up I only use mine for long distance driving.

In general I have to agree with ALS. It CAN be an excellent car.
I have a 98 V90 178,000 miles. I spend >$1.2K-$1.75K/yr in general upkeep and preemptive repairs (all done by my mechanic). Not bad considering..fast, quiet reasonable efficient with fuel.
Insurance, at least in NY, is reasonable, less than 1/2 what I would be paying for a 2-3 yr old MB wagon.
Not for the penny pinching types though. Trichard is correct there. There will be many issues to address.
PS my city MPH's in the summer are around 18, drops to 15 in winter. Same as my previous 93 940 wagon. Highway...26-28, better than the 940. Comfort, ride and power, no comparison.


Dr. Chip
Westchester County NY.
98 V90

I have a '96 965 and think these are some of the nicest volvos ever!! They are not as reliable as a 940, but are much smoother and quieter. Very nice car, and as others have stated make sure the timing belt has been done and the car is in good shape. My car was a bit neglected and I have been playing catch up on it. It is turning out to be a very nice car.