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There is no doubt that 850/V70's cost more to maintain. OTOH, they are a much nicer car to drive. You've got to pay more for a nicer ride!
240's can be extremely dependable cars and are pretty easy to work on. They usually run even if there is something wrong. Parts are cheaper too.
I used to be strictly a 240 guy. I was scared of 850's based on what I read in the RWD forums. I now own 2 850's and have test driven many 850's, V/S70's.. It is critical to buy a well maintained one of these or they can eat your wallet! My experience with 850's vs. 240's is that more small stuff goes wrong with 240's than with 850's. When something breaks it is usually more expensive on an 850/V70. I'm of the opinion that 850's are just as reliable as 240's, they simply need more attention.
My 95 850 wagon with 168k has almost zero squeaks, rattles and clunks (one of the reasons I bought it). It is extremely tight. In the 7 months I have owned it almost nothing has gone wrong with it. A couple of bulbs, exhaust hanger and now the infamous odometer. It has been a great used car so far. Some 850's and V70's are rattle boxes but if you search long enough you could find a jewel...:) My 240 was pretty tight when I bought it at 164k. Since then it has become a clunk, rattle and roll brick!
Hate to plug Japanese cars, but if you are simply looking for a cheap to operate modern car then a Toyota or Honda are probably your best bets. If fun is important go with a Volvo.
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95 855 GLT Sportwagon, 93 854 GLT (for sale), 90 244 DL 300k :)
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