Look at a car as a (high) expense. You either buy a new(er) car and end up paying monthly for depreciation and maybe loan, or you don't have any of that, but pay for more maintenance.

If you don't mind the old car look, stigma and maintenance your volvo is cheap transportation in the long run. Work it out per month, keep it long enough and don't get involved in an accident. Many people here have saved tons of money keeping the old girl going.

Many get tempted by cupholders and electric mirrors, buy something new(er) and end up paying through the nose.

HAve fun.

Jorn