I think this report reflects reality, that Volvo reliability and longevity, since the 850 (and maybe the 700 series before that), has been in decline.

There seems to be a myth that ALL Volvos last 250,000+ miles and that all other brands barely pull past 100,000 miles before they die.

The fact is that if one were to lavish the maintenance resources, expended upon a typical 850, on a typical Japanese car, it would like-wise last past 250,000.

But, because Volvos have this 250,000 mile aura, people think it is a worthwhile investment to keep an old Volvo running, while most people haven't been brainwashed into thinking that a Japanese car can last 250,000 miles.

I think given an equal expenditure of maintenance resources, most Japanese makes would equal, or surpass, Volvo longevity.

In the old days, Volvo lasted long times because they were rugged and simple. Today, 850s last because of cashflow.