From the info I've been collecting I'd have to agree w/ Johnh about the 850 series. Like most cars the first years of a new model have more probs than the later models. I have a '96 and the only major I've had is a rear main seal. Remember in the late 80's and early 90's how it was a bad deal to own an Audi, they were problem prone, I have personal experience. Now in the late 90's early 2002's their quality is top notch. It may be my imagination but it seems that most brands go through cycles, their quality and products go downhill for a while until their sales really stink. Then the company management decides to make huge improvements or face extinction. They make huge inroads in quality and product. Then they coast on past success and start the cycle all over again. My hope is that maybe in the late 90's early 2002's volvo was going through a valley and that they are on the upswing now (After all at Ford isn't quality Job 1£?). I think that the principles that volvo builds cars on are great but in todays competitive market you have to stay at minimum even with the pack and excell if you really want to get ahead. "Adapt or die", think of all the now defunct car makers. I still really like my volvo but when it comes time to replace it I will make an informed decision about what the next car will be.