Ok, if you read my previous post you know I really like my 855t. I've been on this board for a year both getting and giving help and really enjoyed it. Now I have to ask a question to those experienced with both cars.

As I can get into a '91 or '92 940 sedan, maybe even a turbo, for about half of what I could get out of my 855t, what are the pros or cons of such a move? Set me straight but two things I see are that a 940 turbo puts out about the same power as a n/a 850 so I know I'll be losing a fair amount of thrust and I notice a what seems to be a lack of aftermarket support for the 940.

The ride is better in the 940 and the interior is very similar to the 850. If given a choice, I'd prefer a RWD platform and it's simplicity from the DIY maintenance perspective. I do like the larger size of the 940.

Anyone?
--
Erwin in Memphis, '95 855t

It all serves to confirm my assumptions. For those that don't know, this website has an extremelty thorough 7xx/9xx FAQ page with all kinds of information. Interesting stuff.

Happy Holidays
--
Erwin in Memphis, '95 855t

I have to admit, after driving the 855t ('96), I cringe driving 940 due to lack of power. But then, after driving a '91 244, it seems like a sports car. :)

I had the '93 944 (Volvo, not Porche, ha...) for 5 years and the only problems I had were recent a/c issue, and occasional electrical issue. It's been rock solid otherwise. I had a chance to sell it, but handed it over to my father instead.

944 is roomier, ride is softer, with the biggest trunk space I've seen in a sedan so far. My mechanic think it'll last till my 5 year old son gets his license. :)

I love the power of 855t, cargo space, but ride if much firmer, and yes, the engine bay is very crowded. Only had for 6 mo so far, but no problems yet.

As long as you're not looking for equivalent power, and prefer RWD, can't go wrong with 940. Turbo will definitely help. Make sure there are no a/c or electrical issues.

The 940t has a stronger suspension than the n/a (I've had both turbocharged and n/a), and the n/a is anemic powerwise, especially with passengers aboard. The Euro 940t had an extra 25-30 hp using the same engine, so a chip upgrade would be something to consider. In some earlier B230FT's, you can add the IPD camshaft for an extra 25hp. At some point the engine changed to an interference engine and the camshaft can't be used on this engine, so consult with IPD. (I did this with my 88 745T and this car rocked the house.) Low-end response of my 1994 945T was better than my current T5. I could pull into traffic faster, and the automatic transmission was more responsive. The lighting in the 940 is truly pathetic, however. You'll want to add foglights, and maybe driving lights; otherwise you'll feel like you're driving in the dark. The 940 would benefit from additional sound insulation (available from IPD). My 940's have been flawless in terms of maintenance - much simpler, fewer amenities, almost nothing to break.
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David \\ (98 S70 T5SE Black, misc mods (mostly lighting), red calipers) (92 940GLE)

Erwin,

when i bought my 850 used from a dealer, i test drove a 9 series and it was a better riding car with more room, but the power was not there. for performance i would stay with the 8 but for roominess and possibly less maintenance issues the 9 is probably a better choice. I just prefer a slighty smaller car and for aftermarket upgrades and performance the 8 can not be beat.

it is a personnal choice of course, but since i was a avid follower of Rickard Rydell in the BTCC my heart was set on a 850 turbo. bought it love it and never regretted my decision to get the 850.

I hope the list does not loose you as a member, thanks for all the help and Turbo On Dude.

Volvo 4 life

Dan

Hey Dan,

Thanks for the input. I have to say, stock, the B5234t is a superb engine. Power, sound, vibes, revs, it's hard to find that combination. I never seriously considered modifying mine as I prefer stock for my daily driver. If I'd wanted a faster car, well, I would have bought one. That said, I'd sure like to hear it with a sport exhaust!

Also, having a hot-rodded Guzzi LeMans in the garage gives me an outlet for the times I really feel like embarrasing Mustangs, Camaros, BMW's etc. A 950cc Italian V-twin, with about $3500 in the engine. Cam, CC'd, ported, 3-angle seats, chrome moly pushrods, Agostini straight-cut aluminum timing gears (beautiful whine), lightened flywheel, Dunstall Decibel megaphones.

Nothing's definite on the car yet. I'm just mulling over options. We're selling the Dodge Caravan as my wife wants a Volvo and favors the 240. I'm fine with that but as the 940 has more room I'm starting to steer her in that direction. If I were to move from my 8 to a 940 I'd likely have a reasonable amountoof cash available for other interests also.

Either way, I'd stick around this forum just to keep you guys honest. One last note; I'm already planning on picking up a 2003 V70R..... in 2010, when I can afford it!

--
Erwin in Memphis, '95 855t

Erwin,

I have a 97 854 Turbo GLT with the Low Press Turbo B5254T engine. Here is a list of the mods that i have done:

Dawes device manual boost controller set at 9.5 psi up from about 6 psi stock with no problems or Check engine lights. Although it must be installed differently than normal installations due to the ECU.
ASK ME HOW TO INSTALL ONE AND I WILL LET YOU KNOW!

Custom Cat-Back exhaust system with a Aluminized Magnaflow straight thru muffler with lifetime warrenty on muffler, Square/rectangular chrome tip with rolled edge looks really good and sounds great. Muffler relocated to behind rear tire to minimze rumble under rear pasenger compartment. but there is really no sound problem as my wife drives the car with my 3 year old daughter in the back seat and my daughter has no problem sleeping in the car. Sounds like a european turbo should!

Amsoil two stage hi flow airfilter.

Zimmerman Crossdrilled front brakes with Mintex Racing pads, great upgrade over stock brakes.

A piller boost gauge pod with boost gauge. GLT's do not have oem boost gauge!

BFGoodrich Touring TA's 205x55x15 on stock "cetus" rims much better response over the 195x60x15 stock, and absoloutly no tire rubbing.

I plan on doing the ECU upgrade after the holidays, and adding a strut tower brace. My wonderfull wife has requested a Rim upgrade to 16", thank you honey.

Rear spoiler.

the car looks great, sounds excellent, and of course hauls Ass, i love the look on the Honda Rice rockets drivers faces when they catch up to me at the next stop light.

Dan