My wife and I have owned 96 850 wagon. Unfortunately a deer strike ended the relationship. The car has been totalled and we need to replace as soon as possible. The debate is between a v70 and and XC70. We are familiar with the apparent differences as far as all wheel and front. And the right and height differences. But what we really want to know is the reliability differences, maintenance issues and or legacy issues with these two models. And what years to target or to avoid.

We've been looking at 01 and 02 V70's and XCs. Any and all opinions would be greatly appreciated. Which way should we go.

jkvolvo2

v

Most of the reliability issues will be the same between a V70 and an XC of the same model year.

The major issues with the XC are the electronic throttle control and the AWD system.

The throttle has a tendency to fail around 50K miles and can cause the engine to just die, or switch to "limp home" mode. AFAIK there is no fix other than to replace it with a new throttle body that will eventually have the same problem.

The bevel gear and viscous coupling in the AWD system can eventually fail if put under too much stress by having tires which are mismatched in circumference . This can happen just from uneven wear of the tires, driving on the compact spare or putting a new tire on the car when the others are significantly worn.

IMHO, I would look for a later model XC with the Haldex AWD system and the new throttle body design.

Thanks for the info Bob. FWICT it looks like 02 and later is the way to go.
We had a perfectly fine 850 wagon that had a disagreement with a deer.
Total loss.

Thanks again,

jk

Check to be sure, but I think the '02 had the new throttle body, but not the Haldex system. I think that was introduced in '03 on the XC.

Also, on my '01 XC, the interior did not hold up well--lots of wear on the painted surfaces and carpet with normal use and the vinyl trim around the doors was cut a number of times by seat belt buckles. I imagine this would be equally true of the V70.