Hi. I've got some questions on the 700 series.
I've owned Volvos since early '70's, but (except for 164's) only 240's. I'm also a regular on the 200 and 140-160 forums. And I like to work on my cars, not just fixing and maintaining but also improving (e.g., IPD antisway bars, Eurosport Tuning's brakes, etc.). But I've never given any attention to 700's (heard weird things about them -- see below).
Now, my daughter (who in H.S. just used one of my cars, and in college couldn't keep a car at school) has graduated and needs a car for grad school and work. So I want to get her a Volvo, of course. I want something no less reliable (and simple to fix, without complex electronics) than 240's, since she'll be 250 miles away (out of reach of my "helping hand" and at the mercy of local mechanics, should problems develop), and without any design weaknesses. I automatically thought of a '93 240, but someone pointed out that the 700's are even safer because of their SIPPs design -- noteworthy point?

This is my first time on this 700 forum -- and I've got some questions. Given that I'm only considering a 4 cyl., normally aspirated red block (no sixes, and no turbos), then re the aforementioned "weird" things, and in comparison to 240's, is it true, as examples, that:
1) the 700's have some sort of "floating" or "sliding" (???) brake calipers that are prone to jamming (so the pads don't apply equal force on both sides of the rotors)? I do my own brake jobs (rotors, calipers, etc.) on my 240's -- I would change all the rotors and calipers before I turned it over to her, so what would I face doing such a job on a 700? Easier, harder?
2) the 700's have a weaker automatic transmission -- not an AW70 but some other brand that will overheat if you rev the engine in neutral (I think I heard that the pump is driven by the output shaft, instead of the input shaft)?
3) the 700's never got the improved wiring insulation that later 240's got?
4) certain models of 700's have an independent rear suspension, something to avoid in used car (viz., repair problems)?

If any of the above aren't true, please set me straight -- that's why I'm inquiring here.

And anyone with experience with both 200's and 700's, do the 700's perform (handling, braking, etc., regarding "active" safety) substantially better than 240's? Are they worth the change? It isn't the cushy ride that I'm interested in, but definite improvements for my daughter's well-being.

Anything to watch out for (peculiar to 700's) that I should consider when picking a 700?

Any advice would be very much appreciated. In advance, thank you all very much.