Hi,

Just wanted to post a followup to the "ditching" of my S70 that I did a few months ago. Im pretty much in the same place I was a few months ago. This time I am stuck with a super dependable car that I dont like. I loaned the new Accord to my brother and he got in an accident with it. I found myself completely un-upset and praying that he totaled the damn thing (Im not quite so lucky :( )

I have in the process found a vehicle that I really like. I recently purchased a 1981 Mercedes Benz 300SD the w-126 series body. I must say that I see a lot of technology that Volvo "borrowed" in this car. Unfortunatly they did not borrow the "million mile" diesel engine. Ironically this 20 year old Benz is proving itself to be much more reliable than my S70 ever was as well being a much higher quality car build wise. The W-126 was an interesting vehicle being the first vehicle in history with an airbag as an option. If you track the history of the S class back you will find the energy absorbing body being released first on this car as well. Although I must admit one of the most important saftey items (one that has personally saved my life) is the 3 point seat belt first introduced on the Volvo's.

I miss Nadia (my Nautic Blue Metalic S70 5spd). Perhaps one day when the value of the S70's hit rock bottom Ill try to find the car and rebuild it "just to have" as its very difficult to pry me from the MB now.

Good luck with the Volvo's keep em running as long as you can! (Ironically my 20 year old MB will be running well after the time my 2002 Accord is in the junk pile)

Ill tell you that I have purchased my last new car until the car industry gets their act together. Disposable cars are not worth my time.

Robert Chase