Yes, what was mentioned above is exactly right...that's why I bought a '98 S70, which has been a truly reliable car and no more cost than any other car for up-keep. Mileage is in the high 20's with interstate driving, low 20's in the city and mid 20's with combined driving. The same car in a wagon design (V70 is also offered) is a good wagon, as is the '02 and newer V70's, but they are much more expensive and have more computerized gadgetery which only takes a dealer to work on for the most part. I'd stay with a '98 V70 if you want a decent wagon. Check for A/C issues...evaperator replacements are expensive ($1200+) as the dash has to completely come out and other stuff under the dash has to be taken apart as well to get the the thing. Other than that, other repairs are mostly maitenance items and aren't unreasonable if you buy the parts yourself from a place like www.fcpgroton.com and either do these things yourself or have an indy mechanic do them. Timing belt is a 70K miles...make sure it was done if you buy one with more miles. Good luck and let us hear what you decided to do.
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1998 S70 T5 Emarald Green Metallic, 2004 V70 2.5T Ruby Red, Previous Owner of Black '94 850 Turbo Wagon. My cars have been running so well lately they've got me worried.