1996 Volvo 850 GLT review from UK and Ireland

Recall on heated seats. (fixed free of charge)

The top engine mount has started to split.

There is persistent water leak in the boot well.

A lot of people think I am mad buying a Volvo at the age of 21. I bought the car because I was recommended to buy a friend. The GLT model I have bought is very well equipped and also has the alloy wheels and spoiler from the high performance T-5 model which make it look fab. The car has proved reliable and there haven't been any nasty surprises yet.

The performance is excellent, despite it only being a 10 valve. It doesn't matter what engine you go for they are all responsive, flexible, reliable, economic (reasonably) and sound great.

Don't let the size put you off, it is very light and easy to drive, and don't let the size make you believe it doesn't handle well. The handling is very good thanks to the passive rear steering (on the later models) and the only problem I find, is that it likes to break traction even with the traction control on.

The dealers are good with good after sales service. I find specialists cheaper, but the dealers prices are reasonable for most things. The only part I found expensive were a new set of keys which were well over £100 a set, so make sure the car you buy comes with 2 sets of keys.

Overall the 850 makes a comfortable, enjoyable and different rival to a BMW or Audi with added safety and practicality. Don't let the image put you off, you would be surprised how much respect people give it. Try one, you'll love it! In fact the hardest bit of the ownership experience is when you have to sell it, you won't want to get rid of it!