I agree with the points already made. It's important to note that, although they look a lot like the tough-as-nails 940, they're not the same car.

In all fairness, if a 960 was purchased brand new and taken care of meticulously, forsaking no repair immediately as needed, a 960 is a great car that is as durable and long-lasting as any Volvo. If you can find a one-owner car that's got an owner who really took great care of it and can prove it, it may be worth a few moments of consideration.

However, the 960's have not held up well through multiple owners over the years like the 940 has. There were fewer of them made than the 940 so you've got reduced parts availability and higher costs on that. I wouldn't touch one that wasn't an absolutely prime example from an owner as serious about Volvos as I am.

They're excellent cars, fundamentally, but they are much more sensitive to improper or inadequate maintenance than the 940's and I wouldn't personally mess with one, the silky powertrain and slick suspension notwithstanding.

We lost a whole lot of 960's and S90/V90's during Cash for Clunkers. But the 940 soldiers on...
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A bottle of oil and some basic tools in the trunk. The highway is calling. Always remember the difference between durability and reliability. Embrace the old Volvo in your driveway. She's eager to please and, with a little TLC (and a few headaches), sh