1997 Volvo 850 GLT review from North America
"Best security, performance and reliability for your money!"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
I bought it used aware that:
1.the car leaked oil.
2.drive axle joints were broken.
I took the risk and a reasonable discount from the previous owner. Definitely worth it.
No incidents in the 13500 miles I have used the car. The oil leak is reasonable (1 liter (quarter) / 1000 miles) and the axle joints still hold. Engine and transmission are running strong and smooth.
Contrary to other reviews, so far normal wear of tires and brake pads.
General comments?
This car is the best use of $6000 I can imagine. 190 HP, leather seats, ultra-reliable and with safety features like side airbags difficult to find in used cars.
Engine runs very strong, with lots of spare power, transmission is smooth with sport/winter/econ mode. Leather seats, premium sound, wood and cruise control make it perfect for long road trips.
Reasons to buy one (my next car is going to be Volvo, now I am a believer) :
1.Used Volvos have a price/quality ratio hard to match by other luxury brands.
2.Unmatched security features (it is impossible to find a 1996 BMW, Mercedes or Audi equivalent with side airbags).
3.Breathtaking performance in a very discreet styling.
4.Bomb-proof reliability.
I love my turbo-brick!
Recommended reviews
| Love is complicated |
|
| A comfortable luxury car with high costs |
| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | Yes |
| Model year | 1997 |
| Year of manufacture | 1996 |
| First year of ownership | 2004 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2005 |
| Engine and transmission | 2.4 turbo Automatic |
| Performance marks | 10 / 10 |
| Reliability marks | 9 / 10 |
| Comfort marks | 10 / 10 |
| Dealer Service marks | |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 8 / 10 |
| Overall marks (average of all marks) | |
| Distance when acquired | 119500 miles |
| Most recent distance | 133000 miles |
| Previous car | Ford Escort |
| Date of Entry | 2nd August, 2005 |