Currently I have a 94 850 wagon, a 93 850 sedan, a 88 740 sedan and a 86 240 wagon. Had another 95 850 that got totaled this summer (tree fell on it).

After years of 240s and 740s, 2003-04 has been my foray into 850s! Must admit, I love them, but have been limited on some work I used to do - like timing belts, etc.

The 93 850 has 171K - paid $900 for it and put $2000 in parts. Had a trans replaced by previous owner at 160K. Runs great after I did all the preventative maint - tires, brakes, wa pump, timimg belt, seal, hoses, etc. But it still shows signs of needing some front suspension work, so I will need to throw another 500 into that. Had the AC working early in the summer and it quit - might be an evaporator ( big bucks to put in) but I might try some freon sealant next spring. That ac evap problem is something to inspect when looking at 850s!

The 94 850 has 103K and is still a puppy. Got it to replace the totaled 95. Have done wa pump, t-belt, hoses and brakes - about $1000 in parts, plus $3950 for the car. AC works after a drier replacement and recharge twice, I did also flush the trans - so far no major issues there. It did recieve a free recall fuel tank from Volvo last week - that was nice!! Saved about $800 there.

The is a project car - running but not insured yet. The faithful 86 240 is our beater wagon that runs great, but is showing rust. I just did the last timing belt on it that I will do at 146K! However, the water pump I just put on is leaking, so it's time to pull it apart - which will take an hour on a 240 - an 850 would be much more involved.

I would be careful on what 850 I bought - really look for records on the trans and engine - t-belt especially. I must admit, I am looking at V70s and S70s on ebay and might end up with one in the future as Volvo number 60 for me!

Bob Weber
Hamilton, Ohio (Butler County in the battleground of Ohio)
59 Volvos since 1979
94 850 Ruby Redhawk 103K
93 850 Dusty 171K
88 740 Ella Blue 174K
86 240 Woody 147K