1992 Volvo 850 GLT review from UK and Ireland
"Boxy, well built 5 cylinder bargain"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
Offside front brake caliper was sticking, I found a tiny amount of corrosion on the piston which I cleaned up successfully.
The exhaust tailpipe rear mounting had rusted through, but I think at least most of the exhaust is original!
The service history tells me the engine was replaced under warranty at only 40k, a conrod let go only 50 miles after it's 40k service.
General comments?
I bought this car because it was cheap, but what a bargain!
I paid £850 for it, private sale. Despite having 154k on the clock you cannot see or feel any wear in the mechanics or the interior (that includes the driver's seat).
Despite being heavy, it handles through corners really well, better than my Saab 9000 and the 5 cylinder engine sounds great, trouble is it needs to be revved hard to get any power from it (but it is free revving and smooth).
This car is superbly built with fantastic seats and feels like it will do 300k easily.
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![]() ![]() | Comfortable, reliable, durable |
![]() ![]() | This car feels like I will last Forever! |
| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | Yes |
| First year of ownership | 2004 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2004 |
| Engine and transmission | 2.0 20 valve Manual |
| Performance marks | 6/10 |
| Reliability marks | 9/10 |
| Comfort marks | 9/10 |
| Dealer Service marks | |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 8/10 |
| Distance when acquired | 152000 miles |
| Most recent distance | 154000 miles |
| Previous car | SAAB 9000 |
| Date of Entry | 2nd August, 2004 |






