In proper condition, these cars could be well worth the money.

I'd look both over and have them checked out.

If either car had a new evaporator and rear main seal, that would break the tie. So would the proper wheels and good tires.

If the sellers are willing, you should be able to get a history, and have the cars checked out.

I would have the cars run through Volvo's certification check list if you can find a dealer willing to do it. I pay 2 hours labor for the evaluation and get a two page written report. Add an hour for a compression check (If I do this, I have them change the plugs in the process.)

A couple of hundred bucks could save you thousands. My last 850 purchase needed about $4000 worth of repairs to bring it up to prime. I was able to get it done for almost nothing, now I have a spectacular brick at a fair (but slightly high) price.
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96 855R, 95 855,854, 90 744 Ti - 340,000 Volvo miles put on 7 bricks