1996 Volvo 850 R review from Australia and New Zealand

The air conditioning conked out on meat 173 000 KM, and it took a week and a half at the dealership (certified Volvo dealer) to fix, which was quite annoying.

Had to replace the fan belt - inexpensive, but, took 1 day.

The car is incredibly quick for how heavy it is.

It handles like it's on rails.

It packs a lot of grunt, that really puts a smile on your face! (especially when some revhead 'cool dude' drop outs line up at the lights in their 1995 Holden Calais, flashing their lights and laughing etc, didn't take much to send them speechless) Turbo Volvo > Tryhard Holden.

I get a lot of comments 'hey, nice car'.

I have a sticker on the back that says 'bloody volvo driver'.

NB: I have a 850R, pretty special model. Red in colour.

Staggering specs: 185 Kw. :D.

It was my first car, got it as a UNI graduation present from my parents. (I had a underpowered 'mosquito' sounding motorbike before hand; so mum 'n' dad bought me a volvo; obviously they were a little worried about me on a bike.

HEEPS of safety features.

Feels like a tank.

You feel good knowing your driving one of the most solid, safest cars around.

If there was a crash between my Volvo and a 'Ford Falcon', I know what car I'd rather be in. Hint: the swedish built car, renowned for safety throughout the world since its existence.

Safer then most BRAND new cars.

Bloody brilliant.(I need to go drive it now).

Though I've only ever had one car.