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Hey AudiMan (nice name btw)
I have owned a 96 850 GLT Wagon and now own a 98 S70 sedan. So i think i have a pretty decent idea when it comes to comparing the two models.
As mentioned in the earlier post the S70 is a revamped version of the 850, BUT this is what i think.
1: Suspension: The S70 has a MUCH gentler riding suspension than the 850. So much so, the only thing i ever hated about the 850 was the rough ride on bad roads and that is why i finally sold it. I was bracing myself for every bump. I went so far as changing the tires, and front and rear suspensions in hopes for a smoother ride, but that never happened. If you ever read the 850 forum it is filled with complaints about the harsh ride. The S70 is MUCH MUCH smoother and comfortable all around and does not give up that much of cornering performance.
2: Engine: The motors are basically the same. I feel (and this my personal opnion) that the S70 is quicker. But that may also be because the S70 is lighter than the 850.
3: Body: I felt the 850 was a stronger/sturdier built Volvo, not to say the S70 is not but it felt heavier and therfore more safer.
4: Electronics: This one is up for discussion. The ABS/TRACS model is defective on both of them but is not a cheap fix. $600 or so depending where you go. The one on my 850 died, and i had it replaced. The one on my S70 is going bad but i am milking it as much as i can. The fan blower module has gone bad twice on my S70. The starter went bad on my 850.
5: Maintainance: Timing belt on the S70 need to be replaced at 70000 miles. I would recommend replacing the water pump at 140,000 when you do the belt again.
Otherwise, the S70 is (IN MY OPINION) a better built version of the 850. Volvo took the same car changed the looks and made it smoother.
Good luck!
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