Hi everyone- this is my first post on the 850 board. I'm a regular on the 940 board...but thought it might be time to make myself a permanent member over here :)

(BTW - I posted this over on the 940 board - but thought you guys might offer a bit of different insight)- thanks much!

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We have two 940s - my wife's '92 GL sedan (170k) and my 94 T-wagon (112k). I do all my own work on the cars, and have really grown to love them for their reliability and solid qualities. My wife has been great about her car - loves it (has been driving it since '96) - has no desire for something else. But I'd like to surprise her for Christmas with something newer, nicer, QUICKER and that gets a bit better mileage.

So, I'm thinking an 850 sedan. I know NOTHING about the 850 series, except they have a sideways motor (yech) - but like the fact that the '97 850s, should have been pre-FoMoCo.

What do you guys think of the 850s? There are quite a few models of 850s - T-5 being one of them. I would love to hear pros/cons of these cars... primarily about engine reliability, routine maintence, timing belt/water pump replacement. I would think the body/electrical/interior would be as strong and the mid 90's 940 series or better. I just know nothing about that engine/tranny.

Thanks guys. I really appreciate it!