Well, I did some more research on the 'net. I'm really spooked by a few things regarding the '01 V70's:
1) The transmissions seem incredibly weak. Some owners report doing flushes and still having to replace an Auto Trans at less than 80k. What gives? Any telltale signs of what to look for?
2) The ETM seems like a nightmare. It's coded to the chassis management computer. Seems like if you buy a V70 or S60 and intend to keep it, you might as well figure a new xeMoDex ETM into the purchase price. True? I hear xeMoDex now factory codes the ETM as long as you provide them a VIN.
3) Are all sensors hard coded to the chassis computer and if replaced does the car have to be dragged to the dealer to have the new sensor "introduced" to the computer to make it work? Is there a laptop app I can buy with a cable like the VW/Audi VAG tool that works with the Volvo computer?
4) Are the front ends unlike old RWD Volvos? Do they require new bushings at say 80,000 - 100,000 mile intervals like a BMW 3 series?

Are these issues (other than the ETM) really prevalent in the '01 cars or are they just getting a bad rap by a few disgruntled owners that have fallen prey to "lax" factory maintenance that's intended to sell cars?

I agree with you completely that the factory maintenance procedures are rubbish and are designed to sell more cars in the long run. I firmly believe in old school maintenance as well as using proven synthetic lubricants. If I got an '01 V70 I plan on running AmsOil lubricants just like our present 740. It just completed another 1,000 mile road trip with 296k on the clock!

Please let me know what you think.

Thanks!
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D '90 745T 229k, '88 744GLE 129k, '96 328i, '73 911T 100k+