Hello, This is one of the toughest topics to search on this board due to the vague language employed. It's difficult to search "what do I look for", "used car headaches" etc. After reading this board for a while you'll get familiar with recurring issues. You're in a happy zone with a 1998 V70 due to the fact that it's older, cheaper, has a cable controlled throttle, a single spark coil, the beloved 4-speed automatic(which uses Dexron-Mercon not 3309). You'd benifit greatly from a car with a maintenance history but you ain't going to get one. This is where the work load kicks in.------>Check ALL the fluids for freshness, check the shocks and struts for leaks and dampening action, expect the exhaust system to need some attention (oxygen sensors, hangers, pipes and muffler. Check the front end parts (ball joints, tie rod ends, leaks from the steering rack). Check to see if the A/C works (replacing the evaporator is discussed on this board). Check to see if the timing belt has been changed. The service life of a T-belt is 70,000 miles. If this car has no sticker on the timing cover then you can assume it hasn't been done at all. Should you buy a car like that then you should change the T-belt, tensioner, idler AND the water pump (no big deal). Companies like IPD, FCP Groton and Eeuroparts commonly offer complete parts kits to do these routine jobs. Make sure all the exterior lights work AND that all the warning lights on the dashboard go on upon starting the car. Lift the right side of the cowl to see if yours is fitted with a cabin air filter (there's an adapter which allows for EZ addition of a cabin-air filter). Open and close all the doors and listen for any banging. I'm not certain if the '98 has a radio code (necessary if you remove the radio or disconnect the battery). I am certain that the '98 requires a special tool to extinguish the check engine light; should you get one. There will always be things to do on a car this old. Brakes and tires; again no big deal but it all adds up. That's why a lower price is a must. To make this Volvo worth owning you must do a bunch of this maintenance yourself-and you CAN. A good independant mechanic could make you a huge package deal but he'd still have to charge you something. If it's cheap enough and some remedial maintenance doesn't freak you out, then go for it. If you're not that handy with cars then buy my pristine 2002 V70 non-turbo, LOL. Good Luck with your decision, Kira