1996 Volvo 850 Review

Keep on runnin'

Written by: Lifer on 08/30/2008

Vehicle

1996 Volvo 850 4 Dr GLT Wagon

Review

Original owner, car has 160k miles. Solid reliable comfortable car. A/C is somewhat weak, have had some issue with the front end alignment. MPG overall is around 21. Plenty of cargo space, with fold down seats and roof rack, I carry all I need. After 12 years, this car runs like it did when new. Engine performance is sound, and the 168 hp five cylinder engine is very reliable. I hope to keep this car for life.

Favorite Features

Heated seats and mirrors, solid feel, interior space.

Suggested Improvements

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A European Buick!

Written by: djfkeefe on 08/02/2008

Vehicle

1996 Volvo 850 4 Dr GLT Sedan

Review

Major advantage: comfort, most comfortable car I've ever owned. Gasoline mileage respectable - 25 mpg. Major drawback: maintenance costs - cost $4800 in the 4 yrs I owned it, and was facing as much for this year. Started to use oil, 1 qt per 3M miles. Wind-dam too low, knocked it off several times on low concrete barriers (difficult repair). Nonsensible design: headlight wipers, but no rear window wiper? Why?

Favorite Features

Solidity

Suggested Improvements

Wind dam: too low; other cars don't seem to have its problem. Wipers on headlights? C'mon. Need wipers on rear window.

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Best Vehicle I've Ever Owned

Written by: cking3177 on 06/20/2008

Vehicle

1996 Volvo 850 4 Dr STD Sedan

Review

When I purchased the Volvo in 1996, I had no idea that I'd still be driving it and loving it 12 years later. It is still very quiet and comfortable. I've never had any out-of-the ordinary repair issues. This is a great car!

Favorite Features

Roomy inside, like a larger luxury vehicle.

Suggested Improvements

I've never quite adjusted to the view on the passenger's side in the front...as with parking, etc. Maybe it's just me.

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Love my Volvo

Written by: Paula on 04/03/2008

Vehicle

1996 Volvo 850 4 Dr STD Turbo Wagon

Review

When I bought this car it needed a new timing belt, which also means a new water pump. Other than that it is so much fun to drive, lots of pep,easy to haul my 100 pound dog and cat in, and easy for them to get inand out. It gets better mileage than our 2003 Cadillac, and looks great doing it. The cup holders are the only problem, and they're horrible.

Favorite Features

Heated leather seats, 2/3 split back seat, overall outside appearance, the turbo engine

Suggested Improvements

Do something about the horrible cup holders,

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Served us well and then some

Written by: Chrissie on 03/17/2008

Vehicle

1996 Volvo 850 4 Dr STD Wagon

Review

When we bought our Volvo it was older, but with low mileage. The car has been very good to us. We've done a few minor repairs ourselves, thanks in part to the great Volvo message boards. We've had no major repairs which is saying something for a car that is now 12 years old. I feel safe and comfortable in my car. Fuel mileage is pretty good considering the size of the car.

Favorite Features

Interior size & comfort. Safety.

Suggested Improvements

Window controls on the door.

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