Model/year I left as ALL/ALL for a reason. With the acquisition of the P1800 ('63) the world's nicest parts car, Mike W. tells me the current family collection is probably unmatchable on the 'board. Anyone care to comment on diversified Volvo collections?

1963 P1800 complete, probably restoarable, probably will be parted
1979 242GT near mint, going turbo soon?
1983 242Ti "flathood" near mint, VX3 cam, a total blast
1985 244Ti (nicely restored to reliability)
1990 780 (mint) VX3 cam
1991 245SE K cam (greatest all around car in history)
1996 850T-5
and a handful of 240 DL workhorses

I can't really say I prefer one car, but the 780 is definitely a most impressive car, once it starts to grow on a 240 guy. Not sure but the 850 might be fastest, edging out the 780 and the flathood. All are putting out V8 level power. For pure G's though the 240 turbos from 3000-6000 rpms are unsurpassed. The 850 and the 780 are very similar to drive, wrt smooth power and handling, although the 850 has a touch of torque steer.

This would all be insanity, of course, if I ever needed a pro mechanic, or frequently needed a dealer, or retail parts supplier, but with the Volvo standards of durability, conservative model changes, and ease of repairability, together with the huge supply of used parts, it is actually quite economical.