If you came from an American car, you'll find Volvo steering heavy. It's a Euro thing. Excessive caster will make it feel heavy too...a distinct possibility if the rear Nivomats are bad and the rear end is too low.

If the engine noise is a "tick", it might be valve clearance. Don't waste your time pulling the cam and all to replace the O-rings. If it's a knock (not knack), it is MUCH more likely a worn cylinder wall and piston causing the noise. Very common in older pre-'93 turbo engines.

Some turbo whine is normal. The impeller spins up to about 150,000 RPM. If it sounds like a fire truck siren, the turbo probably has loose shaft bearings and is nearing the end of its life. Bad turbo hoses cause performance problems (no power, black smoke), not noise.