My '87 745GLE was rearended while waiting to turn left a couple of years ago. It was hit by a Toyota Corolla going around 35mph. The back end of the car was pushed downwards, pivoting at a point on the roof right above the C-pillar. Except for not being able to open or close the rear doors without rubbing the door frames and not being able to roll down the rear windows all the way due to slight deformation of the doors there was no other major damage. Had anyone been in the 3rd seat they would've gotten quite a scare, but no injuries.

Unfortunately, the insurance company looked at the age, mileage (225k mi), and rust on the old car and decided its value was about $500 less than the cost of repair.

I'd say that, if there was any greater chance of injury to 3rd seat occupants, Volvo wouldn't include them. I'd feel safe putting kids back there.

jeff daigle
'89 745GL 136,000mi