I test drove a couple of 740 wagons (a '90 non-turbo, and a '92 turbo)Friday, and had pretty much settled on the 1992 Turbo, even got a loan approved Saturday. A couple hours after getting the loan approved I came across two (yes 2) Turbo wagons within 5 miles of each other, on the side of the road with their hoods up and no one around--obviously there due to mechanical breakdown.

Well, this has made me reconsider my decision, but not necessarily abandon it. That's why I'm here. How reliable are the 1992 Turbos? Should I stay away from them? Help.

A little more background. The dealership I looked at the two cars at is an auto service center that specializes in Volvos and they have about 20 on-site that they have up for sale. They offer a 6-month/6K mile warranty where they share the cost of any repairs 50/50 on all their Volvos.

The 1990 Wagon (159K miles) was OK, but a bit cosmetically rough and the leather on the seats was a bit stiff. The ride was alright, but a bit anemic with the AC on. Asking price was about $4900.

The 1992 Turbo Wagon (121K miles) was very clean, the leather of the seats was supple and much more pleasant to sit on. It ran wonderfully smooth, and though it couldn't press you back in your seat, it was a marked improvement over the other one. Asking about $6000 for this one

I went home and talked to the wife and had pretty much settled on the Turbo, but the two breakdowns on the side of the road, I've gotten a little nervous.

Should I stay away from the turbo, I think the dealer just got a 16-valve 740 sedan--should I go there?

Thanks, in advance for any knowledgeable feedback.

John