Hi all,
I am looking at buying a new wagon. There is a very nice 850 glt, leather, 110k, very nice all over for $4995 and a 960 I haven't seen in person but sounds and looks mint in the picture I have seen, it has 159K and $3700. My main question is on over the road ride quality. I have driven 1 s70 sedan and was not impressed. I have several RWD volvos, none with good ride quality, but no 960's. i have heard here the 960's ride much better than 240's, 740's and 940's that are non-irs. I am looking for experience and opinions on either car. No real maintenance records on either.
Thanks,
Palmer
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1994 944na, 1980 265 V8, 1989 244, 1987 745ti

The 960 has a longer wheel base to give an advantage in the ride department. The 960 is heavier by a lot with much more sound padding and has the SMOOTH 6 cylinder engine to add to the luxury environment. So quiet you can listen to quiet passages in classical music on the CD!

The all new suspension design for '95 allows for great handling while still offering a luxury ride. I've altered my car with performance items so my ride is harsher than some but if I slow down to a civilized pace and avoid most of the pot holes it is still nice by the standards of most passengers.
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'96 965, 16' wheels, Michelin Pilot Sports, rear 18mm bar + Koni, 201 HP cams, 133K. Put 200K on '85 745 TD.

Ride quality is one of those individual things; what is ride quality to me, may not be ride quality to you. I have a 940 SE which has the Nivomats and Independent Rear Suspension. I just put new Nivo's on the rear, and Boge Pro Gas on the front. I my opinion, it handles great, and rides very comfortably. I don't know what you are used to; if you want a Buick ride, this ain't it, but it is the ride I like.

Keep in mind that for years, the 960 was Volvo's luxury flagship, so I would expect almost by definition, the 960 would be a more comfortable drive.

And don't overlook the importance of the proper tire for your driving preferences. A cheapo tire can screw up even the best ride.

Allen

Hi, I owned a 1995 850 T5 and a 1996 24 valve 2.5 960 at the same time. I sold the T5 as the ride to suit it`s performance was like sitting in a tin tray on wheels. The 960 although heavier, it rides and corners like a dream. Depending on your tyres there is also virtually no road noise transmitted. This model(2.5 170bhp) also has the about same petrol consumption but uses it in greater style. The boot is huge and of course covered unlike the 850 if the rear compartment cover is drawn over, then their is something worth stealing. I think overall the 960 is the better buy the comfort and ride quality is second to none.


1996 2.5 960 Blueberry Saloon 107000
1989 2.3 Turbo 740 Blue Estate 130000

i have a 92 960 wagon.mind you the newer ones have irs, which mine has a solid axle. either way, stock ride quality was excellent even with bad front shocks. once i lowered the car that sorta went away. if you are getting a wagon, it might be benificial to go and get a rear swaybar. it helps with the body roll.



just my thoughts. good luck with the purchase

jason