Good car, the 850. If you take care of it!

Watch for front end issues and avoid the 1996 model year. Make sure the struts, strut mounts, tie rods and control arm brushings are in good shape. The engines rarely have problems but the suspension seems to cause everyone the most grief..

My car cost 6000 dollars 3 years ago, and I have put another 3000 into it, not counting the damage done by a mechanic who changed the oil and left the plug out! Most of that money has gone into the front end.

The great thing about these cars is the performance...no other volvo except for the newest high end models..matches the 850 for speed, milage, handling and ride. The 850 is a sport sedan.

They do not have the longevity of the 240 series though..and they are getting older every year.