I LOVE my recently aquired 1998 V70 T5(M). I've read that it can be a little hit or miss wiht the build quality of these cars. It seems that if the car was built before 10/97, it might be more miss that hit as the problems seemed to have been worked out from 10/97 forward. Other thoughts I've read on that topic is that most issues have been resolved under warranty by this time.

I bought my 98 last sept. It was a Volvo Corp. owned car and was always serviced at HQ in NJ, so I'm hoping they've caught everything. There were quite a few things fixed under warranty, like shorted out speakers, new stereo due to burnt out bulb, and some other little stuff.

With that said, if you have the car's history, that should tell you if this car is a good sample or not. If it seems good, or better yet if you're getting an extended warranty, BUY BUY BUY that RRRRR!!!

My biggest complaint about my car is lack of traction. Both from the snow filled winter here in the NE, and from the 236 hp coupled with the 5spd manual tranny. So your R should have the advantage there on both fronts!

As for the Audi, I'd LOVE to get my hands on the newly imported S6!!! Anything else is too slow. But that Audi has MUCH more rear seat leg room at the sacrifice of the cargo area. Keep that in mind.

But the Volvo looks best! Sortiest, IMHO.

Let us know what you decide.