1997 Volvo 850 Base review from North America

Recall was issued on the heated seats. Had the recall done, and now the heated seats don't work. That's not progress...

Had a bit of a starting problem once, but the dealer fixed it up.

Struts are starting to squeak and the tires I have fitted (205/55/ZR16) rub on occasion.

Otherwise, it's unbelievably reliable!

I've heard from other 850 owners (with higher-end cars equipped with the sexy alloy wheels) that the rims are prone to bending.

I'm darned lucky to have done so well for my first vehicle. I bought this car in 1999 and it was two years old. I don't put a whole lot of miles on it, but when I do I enjoy it.

The engine is not powerful. If you want power, go for either the T5 model or the low pressure turbo 2.4 model 850's. 168 horsepower isn't all that much in a weighty tank such as this. However, it never feels "underpowered" and there are no problems merging. It holds speed on the highway well, and it's not too loud.

It's incredibly comfortable to drive. I'm 6'2" tall, and I fit quite well. My 850 is a base model, fitted with the winter package (heated seats, headlight washer jets, and a "winter mode" for the transmission which starts it in 3rd to reduce wheelspin). I have cloth seats, and they suit me just fine. The stereo isn't great, but it's got decent sound.

One of my favorite aspects is how strange the car is to drive. Because it's a five-cylinder, it has a unique "thrum" to it much like older Audi models.

I fitted the car with three-season performance tires, Bridgestone Potenza RE730 sized 205/55/ZR16 (the stock tires are 195/65/15) They have a lot of grip to them, but they degrade the ride quite a bit. Not that I care!

I think I'll be keeping my Volvo for a long time, unless I come across a good deal on a Mini Cooper- I'd really like one of those.

850= HIGHLY recommended model.