I've always liked the look and the sound of the 850's - wagons and sedans.

My 240 is nice, I've had it for four years, but it is leaking in the rear end, the air doesn't work, I popped seats in from an '84 because the original drivers seat failed, the taillights are cracked and faded, the belly pan and cowl up front is gone, front passenger door is rusting after the trim piece peeled off, front lights are cracking and fading, parking brake is siezed, glove box opens when it wants to......she's just getting old. Still starts and runs every day, though! I've put new brake pads on it all around, new tranny cooling lines, an ECU about two years ago (ouch), new exhuast about two years ago. I was seriously thinking of restoring it, but the cost just doesn't warrant it...she may be too far gone for that.

I also enjoy a stick (in fact I prefer a 5-speed where fwd is in play). The 850 is more refined and comfortable, and (probably) as durable as the 240 series. I don't car if the air quits in the 850 - I haven't had it for years in the 240.

Not an easy decision. "4volvos" said s/he would keep the 240 and get the 850. I may just do that; throw the old girl into storage and clean her up when cash flow warrants it. The 850 is a nice car, is still a volvo (i.e. not a ford) but in my mind nothing says VOLVO like the 240.