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Chris
I have heard different stories about the ABS control unit, the most common being a bad batch. However, the problem seems to persist over several years of 850s and x70s, so I am not sure I believe that explanation. It has been a couple of years since I replaced the ABS control unit, but I think the price was about $700.
To maintain the bevel gear, I have simply specified that I want the bevel gear casing inspected and fluid level checked. I have not yet changed the fluid, although I have changed the transmission fluid twice (Redline MTL).
One other important consideration is the availability of service history information. Ask the seller. If it is not available, can you get in touch with the previous owner? I don't know about Nova Scotia, a kit is available for $20 from vehicle licensing offices that lists the previous owners (in Ontraio) of the car. From that, and with a little sleuthing, you can find the previous owner and ask her/him about service history.
Just remember that Volvos in general require fairly constant and expensive attention to achieve their reputation for above average longetivity. And yes, the awd driveline has more components that might potentially fail. My experience has been that the newer models with their complex electronics require dealer service (or at least diagnostics). The same is true of most makes of cars, but this significantly limits your options about service organization.
You asked about high mileage. Check autotrader.ca. You will find awd and xc wagons that have travelled in excess of 200k km. They are pretty much the same cars, the main difference being the manual transmission that was offered in 1997 and early 1998.
For more information, and to read about owners' experiences, check out xc70.com and swedespeed.com.
Neil
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1997 850 awd, m58 5 speed manual, 1989 740 GL, m47 5 speed
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