Depending on how bad the rack leak is, get a small bottle of Lucas PS stop leak and pour it in - all of it. It just might help and give you a winter 'beater' to drive around. The Lucas is a bit like syrup, so syphon out the small reservior, pour in the Lucas, start the engine for a minute or two and repeat.

My rack also leaked, but only at full lock of the wheel, maximum pressure. It hasn't leaked again as far as I can determine.

The 1996 is a great find, especially with only 110K on the clock. Look at Volvospeed for SAS delete if you get a P0410 code, easy 'fix' and the car runs better without the SAS pump. This is a 'too cold outside' project, until you get to the part about removing the SAS air pump.

Most of the engine bay will swap with the 1997, assuming both cars are non-turbo. Carpets can also be swapped.

My garage, attached to the house, is down to 40F. And the wrench turning has slowed considerably.