I discovered that it's impossible to accomplish a "heel-and-toe" downshift on a Volvo unless one buys and installs pedal extension plates. I wouldn't say that the pedals are in different time zones, like on a Crown Victoria, but they're pretty far away from each other. At least compared with a Porsche, or a BMW, which are easy to "heel-and-toe", since their pedals are close enough to reach clutch, brake and gas all at once.

I've always presumed it's a "safety" feature on a Volvo, in that they're trying to discourage owners from driving fast.

The designers can't satisfy everyone, I guess.

-Uncle Olaf