I have a 93 with 278,000 miles. It runs well, does 32 mpg (UK) and easily passed its emission tests last month. Electronics, CAT and oxygen sensor all original, the engine is untouched.
Servicing is the thing, and not doing short runs. I regularly blast off mud from underneath, and have rust-treated all the likely spots based on experience from having had an 83 before. I don't see why it shouldn't last as long as your older model.

The newer, FWD cars have all sorts of electronic doo-dads that our relatively simple RWD cars do not have. It's been awhile since I stopped by the FWD/AWD forum, but the last time that I poked my head through the door most of the issues that were being raised there had to do with failure of electronic components (e.g. transmission PNP switch). Some 850/x70 owners have also experienced problems with the A/C system (evaporator failure), and I have also heard a few second hand accounts of transmission failure, but I do not think that this is a widespread problem.

In theory, the all aluminum engines should actually be more reliable than the iron-alumnium "hybrid" 240/740/940 engines, at least with respect to incidence of headgasket failure, since they don't employ two different metals which expand at different rates. Many so-called "white block" motors are reportedly running quite well with in excess of 200,000 miles.

Try snooping around the FWD forums. That should give you some idea what to expect from each model. I would just suggest staying away from the first year (maybe two) from when any model is introduced such as '99 S80 or '00-01 S40. There are a few 850's out there reporting over 200,000mi so it seems the aluminum engines are holding up just fine.

Otherwise, given decent car, they should hold up just as well as the RWD's. The electronics are not as user friendly to service (understatement) but again all the bugs are typically worked out the first year or two after hitting the market.

My 02 S40 is entirely problem-free. I'll let you know in twenty years if it outlasts the 240.

mormit

My friend bought a new s60 a couple of years ago and has gone through two engines. He drives it normally, but has had lots of problems with it. I think Ford really had an impact on Volvo. I hate Fords with all my heart, and I'm mad that they bought Volvo.

Charles 1985 245ti 134K