If you search this forum you should find many threads on this topic. Most of us are former RWD Volvo owners who have hesitantly made the leap. I think that most of us are now FWD/AWD Volvo fans. You may find an occasional pining for a pristine '93 240. But we have decided that the newer cars are still Volvos.

The cars are fun. More horsepower, more gadgets.

Because of the electronics, computers, tight spaces, they can be harder to diagnose and repair. Parts seem to be more expensive. There is a lot of help on here, and a site called Bay 13, for us DIYers. No matter which newer car you have, it will have these problems. I remember adjusting the air fuel mixtures on carburetors by ear, before I had a tach. Now everything has dual O2 sensors, MAF sensors, computers, cam position sensors, etc., etc.

One of the good things is - no one is talking bad about the longetivity. The white motors are piling up the mileage. Regular oil changes, many choose synthetic oil, and keeping the flame trap/crankcase breather system clean are important. Early ('93, '94) had an automatic transaxle issue, but later models seem to be doing fine. We believe that routine changes of transaxle fluid are needed, but that is a simple 30 minute task.

The cars have their issues, but they seem to be consistant and help is available. We tend to think its worth a little effort just to be able to drive a Volvo. Some of us don't want to drive a Camry or Accord like everyone else.