My mentality regarding my volvo has definitely changed over the past year. I went from wanting to drive it until something expensive broke and then ditch it; to wanting to dump it while it still runs; to wanting to keep it and turn it into a better than new. Though I care less about cosemetics.
My engine is running so well, not burning any oil (in fact I have about 800 miles on my current oil and it is still amber in color), passing emissions extremely well...I just can't let her die out of neglect.

Anyway. What's on my mind now is that I don't like the way my engine starts. It takes a good 5-6 turnovers before it ignites, and that is just not good for me. I want to just briefly tap the starter and have a nice purring machine. So I'm thinking 2-3 turnovers maximum.

I want to replace everything I can that would be getting in the way of a good quick start, with better than stock parts if possible.

Is it true that higher octane gas is actually more difficult to ignite than lower octane? If so, it may that I run 89 rated octane fuel in her that is possibly contributing to the "hard" starts. That's something I won't change.

So, if you have some advice or recommendations, please share.

This may sound silly to most of you, but I am increasingly interested in doing performance oriented tuning to my Volvo, perhaps tracking it lightly from time to time, someday. I love the "sleeper" possibilities with this car, and the thought of creating incredulity with other racers...

Kevin