Thought it might be fun, although painful, to hear about what some have done to their Volvos. So, on my 81 245
New tires New bushings, all of them
New outer tie rods New strut mounts
New f/r sway bars (IPD) New shocks f/r (IPD)
New springs f/r Rebuilt differential
New u-joints and balanced drive shaft New center support bearing
New oil pan seal New oil pump spring and o-ring
R&R entire intake manifold system New flame trap box
Relocation of EGR valve New exhaust manifold gaskets New exhaust manifold bolts New exhaust man down pipe
New exhaust system (IPD) New motor/tran mounts
New timing belt/tensioner All new belts
New ac dryer, pressure switch New intank fuel pump
New tail gate wiring harness New fuel injectors
Tinting film, all windows New fuel pump relay/wiring
R/R hand brake cable New rad/heater hoses
Replaced distributer Replace/reseal front windshield
Paint/clear coat entire car New fan for a/c system
Replace heater fan motor New turbo wheels
I've probably forgotten some things and this list doesn't include all the fluid changes, alignments, balancing etc. I've done some of the work myself and had some done by a Volvo mechanic at his home. Still have stuff to do like remove/balance flywheel, replace front calipers, and redo front seat covers. Then I'll probably look at some upgrades. No, I haven' dared to look at the cost. I'm sure it close to 10k including the cost of the car.