Used 1998 Volvo S90 Consumer Reviews
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The Ultimate RWD Volvo
kblupino, 09/17/2013
updated 03/17/2017
1998 Volvo S90 4dr Sedan
13 of 13 people found this review helpful
Although the Scandanavian cubist design was starting to get a bit old by 1998, one thing that they got spot on was the interior--it is absolutely fantastic. The leather seats with suede inserts completely coddle their occupants. And the tasteful, real(?) wood accents would not look out of place in a car costing much, much more. And while I was a bit uncertain about the Volvo 24-valve V-6 engine, they had gotten all the kinks worked out by the '98 model year, and it's nice having decent (by 1998 standards) power in a Volvo. I drove it as my daily driver for five years, and now my kids drive it. With full front and side (in 1998!!!) airbags I feel safe with them driving it. The car is barely middle-aged in terms of mileage, and has many years left in it before it's in need of retirement. Yes, sometimes it can be costly to repair, but as long as it's maintained it really doesn't ever need repair. And while the boxy design was a cliche for Volvo for many years, I kind of like it. Simple, functional, and different. The S90 represents the ultimate old-school, rear-wheel-drive Volvo.
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Amazing vehicle will last
darkmatter, 01/12/2010
1998 Volvo S90 4dr Sedan
9 of 9 people found this review helpful
I have been rather amazed after purchasing my 98 Volvo S90 with its quality and fun! This is the last flagship of the swedish brick design by volvo before it was purchased by ford in 1999. By the way, if you are up in the air between this car and a 99- 2003 S80 go with this car much less issues. The S90 is RWD and has an amazing turn radius and cornering ability. If you like to do your own work on your car this is a blast! Easy to work on and junkyard 9 series parts (940,960,S90) parts are all for the most part interchangeable! Great first car, great car period, volvo went out with a bang, not a flashy one but one that will hold your interest and your family safe for years!
Volvo Drivers Wanted
VolvoChick, 07/25/2006
1998 Volvo S90 4dr Sedan
8 of 8 people found this review helpful
Awesome car, handles great. Easy to operate and maintain. Good mpg getting about 22 in city. Loving the heated seats and moonroof is great as well. Would recommend this car to anyone, great for student or parents, even grandparents. Fun to drive and has the get up and go that the 740's did not. This is my 5th Volvo throughout my life. I have owned the 740GL and 740GLE , 940, 850, S90. Most of which had well over 200K miles on them. I drive them until the wheels fall off. (it's a figure of speech) Would recommend , actually suggest Preventative Maintenance on these cars, if something does go out it can and will be expensive. Great cars easy to maintain and enjoy them - they will save your life!
NO PROBLEMS AT ALL!!!
Denver-Style, 11/13/2010
1998 Volvo S90 4dr Sedan
13 of 14 people found this review helpful
My Volvo S90 does AWESOME in the snow!!! It has the WINTER BUTTON for the torque converter(transmission) and does just fine. I am from Denver and drive the mountain roads daily and this S90 is as safe as it gets! I get about 25mpg's and haven't had any problems out of this car what so ever (given a Highly reputable dealership). The Leather has held up extremely well. With proper maintenance you can have a vehicle that will last and last a long time. They will go. I have 256k miles on my S90 and plan on keeping it forever! When I bought the Volvo I paid $7995.
Classic Swedish Style And Grace
Bingham, 02/15/2016
updated 02/15/2017
1998 Volvo S90 4dr Sedan
12 of 13 people found this review helpful
The S90 is the last remaining iconic rear wheel drive Volvos produced and the 1998 model year was its swan song. The S90 production was only about 18 months. This model not only competes very well with its European cousins such as Mercedes, BMW and Audi but excels in overall fit, finish, performance and reliability. The S90 has such understated elegance, that belies its true heritage. Make no mistake it is a true Volvo with safety a paramount issue and was the first to employ side air bags in this model year. Although some 17 years now into service, not many are available in the pre owned market. Many of the S90's were used as transportation for royalty, diplomats, executives and UN duty the world over based upon the safety measures that are employed in the S90 as well as its overall performance in emergency situations. One will feel totally safe in this car. Regardless of going out shopping, or a night on the town or a lengthy road trip, the S90 excels in all climates and situations one may find themselves faced with. With its powerful Porsche designed engine cruising the Interstates is a breeze and has low end torque that will sprint you away quickly. Has the tightest turning radius of any sedan in its class, which means even in the smallest of parking situations the S90 excels with ease. Throughout the years of designing and building cars, Volvo's purpose has remained the same: to deliver its occupants to their destination safely and comfortably. Our 1998 Volvo S90 adds another adverb to that list: stylishly. That's right - the famously boxy buggy lost some of its squareness for this the model year, both literally and figuratively. With this beautiful sedan, Volvo lets style ride in the front seat with safety. In other words, "Sure, we're the safest, but we're darned good-looking, too." You've seen these pass you out on the roads, and most likely you've noticed the guy behind the wheel going about his commute with a smile. This is the result of rolling down the road enjoying truly exceptional handling and performance while feeling confident that this vehicle, which received stellar ratings in NHTSA crash tests, will protect you should something go awry. Plus the Narcissus in every driver loves knowing that in this car he looks great doing it, too. Spend awhile behind the wheel and you'll get the feeling this car was made for the highway, where you're sure to be all smiles. The Volvo S90 offers you a great choice if you're shopping for a Sedan with a few extras. Add in the Swedish comfort and impressive performance and you have yourself a winner not often found. S90 Description: Basic Information: Model Year: 1998 Make: Volvo Model: S90 Body Type: Sedan Suspension: Independent Suspension: Independent Stabilizer Bar: Front And Rear In Car Entertainment: Audio System: AM/FM Stereo w/CD & Cassette Speakers: 8 Antenna Type: Power Retractable Comfort: Air Conditioning: Automatic Climate Control Trunk Lights Dash Trim: Genuine Wood Mats: Carpet Front And Rear Reading Lights: Front And Rear Rearview Mirror: Day-Night Steering Wheel Trim: Leather Vanity Mirrors: Driver And Passenger Doors: Front Doors - 2 Rear Doors - 2 Engine: Engine Description: 2.9L I6 24V Fuel Type: Premium Gas Cam Type: Dual Overhead Cam Fuel Induction: MPI Valves Per Cylinder: 4 Aspiration: Normal MPG Automatic City: 18 MPG Automatic Highway: 26 Instrumentation: Speedometer Clock Fuel Gauge w/low level alert Tachometer Ambient Temp LCD Readout with Black Ice Warning that turns display Red. Seats: Seating Capacity: 5 Drivers Height: Power Drivers Lumbar: Manual Drivers Power: 6 way with memory Passenger Height: Power Passenger Lumbar: Manual Passenger Power: 6 with memory Front Seat Type: Bucket Upholstery: Leather Privacy Pockets: Front Of Both Driver & Passenger Seats Center Armrest: With Pass-Thru Heat Ducts Heated Seats: Driver and Passenger Features: Floor Covering: Deep Pile Carpet Bumpers: Body-Colored Dimensions: Luggage Capacity: 16.60 Cubic Feet Maximum Seating: 5 Length: 191.80 Inches Width: 68.90 Inches Height: 55.60 Inches Wheelbase: 109.10 Inches Curb Weight: 3521 Pounds DriveTrain: Transmission: 4-Speed Automatic Drive Train Type: RWD Driven Wheels: Rear-Wheel Wheels Rims: Alloy Wheels Spare Rim Type: Steel Roof and Glass: Front Wipers: Fixed & Interval Rear Defogger Rear Windows: Power Sunroof: Power Privacy Glass: Light Convenience: Cruise Control Windows: Power Steering Power: Hydraulic Power-Assist Steering Adjustment: Manual Outside Remote Mirrors: Power Remotes Power Door Locks: Power With 2 Stage Unlock Cupholders Door Pockets Power Outlets 1 Seatback Storage: 2 Memory Features: Driver Memory Features Number of Drivers: 3 Keyless Entry Safety: Driver and Passenger Airbag Side Airbags: Seat Mounted ABS: 4-Wheel Anti Theft System Brakes: 4 Wheel Disc Safety Locks Headlights: Halogen Headlight Cleaners: Wiper And Washer Daytime Running Lights Fog Lights: Halogen Turning Circle: 31.80
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Still Love my Volvo S90 After 8 Years
Sharon, 03/11/2009
1998 Volvo S90 4dr Sedan
6 of 6 people found this review helpful
I bought this car after a friend of mine had an accident and almost died in a compact car. I traded my one year old Buick Century for my first non-American car. It was the best decision I ever made. I bought it at 25,000 when it came off lease at 2 years old. I have had the maintenance done on the car that the book suggests and have had very little problem with it. At 130,000 miles, I will still take it anywhere. The 6 cyl engine is still as smooth as it was. Still handles great. She still looks new. Every once in a while I will go and look at a new S80 and will get all excited about it but after I get back in my car I think, why? I would buy it all over again!!
Volvo's Timeless Flagship
papawilli, 08/14/2007
1998 Volvo S90 4dr Sedan
4 of 4 people found this review helpful
I found this one owner Volvo with only 72K on it, absolutely flawless. As expected, the price was a bit high, however it is worth every dime! Having had two prior Volvos, we had certain expectations with this one, and it has surpassed them all. Classic styling, old-world craftsmanship in its attention to detail assembly, excellent performance and handling, easily the nicest, most driveable vehicle we've had in over 30 years, including a Cadillac. I would highly recommend this vehicle to anyone looking for a solid, reliable car that can be driven for many years. The newer Ford / Volvos have nothing over this "last of the big rear wheel drive" true Swedish pieces of art. A real pleasure.
Good car ... too bad the value drops
boston0259, 01/24/2005
1998 Volvo S90 4dr Sedan
3 of 3 people found this review helpful
Good solid car. Have had very few problems, overall, however, the most annoying is the "Check engine" light. Usually that means that there is a small problem in the fuel system. Watch this carefully. I have had Volvo dealers charge me many times over for useless repairs only to find out that it was a small sensor that had to be replaced. Can you believe that the dealer convinced me that they needed to drop the fuel tank, and re-weld the seams !! What a rip-off they were. Other than that, this is a good, solid car. Even now at nearly 7 years old, the doors close firmly, the car starts and rolls smoothly down the street.
Last Of The Iconic Volvo's
Ned, 02/15/2016
updated 08/15/2016
1998 Volvo S90 4dr Sedan
3 of 3 people found this review helpful
The S90 is the last remaining iconic rear wheel drive Volvos produced and the 1998 model year was its swan song. This model not only competes very well with its European cousins such as Mercedes, BMW, Audi and the like but excels in overall fit, finish, performance and reliabilty. The S90 has such understated elegance, that belies its true heritage. Make no mistake it is a true Volvo with saftey a paramount issue and was the first to employ side air bags in this model year. Although some 17 years now into service, not many are available in the pre owned market. But by chance you find a well cared for S90, I recommend you buy it fast. There are no dissappointments with this vehicle and has all the creature comforts of anything offered today. I have had many Volvo's over the years and the S90 is a prime example of Volvo's time honored tradition of safety first. Cabin comfort is far and away in the tradition of fine craftsmanship. The fit and finish of the leather has to be seen to fully appreciate. And with the side air bag in the seat bolster, along with the SIPS system ensures driver and passenger safety. All seats have springs for added comfort with lumbar support. Same holds true of the rear seating. All who have rode in the back seat have given positive praise to the comfort and the rear reading lights add that additonal touch of class. Finely appointed wood trim and rear console that has two compartments. Eight speaker entertainment center with both CD and Cassette playback as well as AM/FM Radio. A very quiet and user friendly cabin. The S90 has more than withstood the test of time and continues to deliver the promise of what Swedish Luxury stands for. I have mine, now is the time for you to acquire, before they are gone forever. Not many S90 were made.
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- Technology
- Performance
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Finally Got One! Worth The Wait!
Mike Robinson, 10/18/2008
1998 Volvo S90 4dr Sedan
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
I've had this car a little over a month now. I've wanted a Volvo for some time. The new ones are nice, but I wanted the "Flagship" design. No, it's not new & needs some minor things done. Even though it needs tires, it really rides great at highway speed! I'm pleased that it was taken really good care of! It really "hugs" the road--even in turns! As stout & tough as any tank on any battlefield! I feel really safe in it! I paid $3638 for it. Quite an accomplishment for me. Bought a Volvo & paid cash for it!
Good Car
Fonda Blackburn, 08/11/2009
1998 Volvo S90 4dr Sedan
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
I've had this car for 11 years, bought new.The car is still in excellent condition inside. A few dings on the outside. Keep thinking its time to trade in but since its paid for and very reliable, its hard. The only thing I wish for is that it would get better gas mileage. I plan on keeping it another 2 or 3 years.
what to like about hte s90
kevin, 09/29/2009
1998 Volvo S90 4dr Sedan
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
The vehicle has been reliable.It starts up 100% of the time. The heating and air conditioning unit is above average. I live in Massachusetts, it gets cold up here and the heated seats are just great for the weather. The car gets warm faster than most cars. This is my first volvo and i have no noteable complaints. Little things on my volvo have gone, like the horn, sunroof, emergency brake, and the doorhandle. It recently overheated but i fixed it the hose bursted behind the engine. Other then those issues the car has been great, its reliable its kind of speedy, and its very comfortable.
Reliable except for A/C
Trock, 06/12/2004
1998 Volvo S90 4dr Sedan
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
Best cornering of any car I've ever had; it can turn on a dime. Low maintenance in general except for A/C problems. At 110,000 I had 2 A/C repairs = $1600 total- this is a frequent problem w/ Volvos. Seat style took some getting used to; it may be safe, but is uncomfortable at first. Mine currently has 125k miles.
Exceptional ride but expensive to maintain
Houston, Tx, 12/18/2005
1998 Volvo S90 4dr Sedan
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
Pluses - Extremely smooth, quiet and comfortable ride; small turning radius; very strong, quick to accelerate and reliable engine. Negatives - Electronics unreliable on various features (seat, antenna, fuel oxygen, some engine component and sensor wiring; air conditioning develops problems on regular basis and needs frequent expensive repair. brake pads and components wear out frequently. Bad front seat drink console. Car needs very regular TLC/service maintenance to maintain the quality ride experienced. Parts and service can be expensive. Very much liked the car and features just not the expenses required to maintain the frequent services and expensive air conditioner service.
Not a bad car
K.A, 01/30/2009
1998 Volvo S90 4dr Sedan
3 of 4 people found this review helpful
I highly recommend this car for a first time buyer. The only problem with this car is it does horrible in the snow which is bad for me because i live in the Boston, Massachusetts area. Small problems can occur in this car but its like that with any car. I have owned this car for almost a year now and its been a great car. If you don't get at least 170,000 miles out of this car then there is a problem, it's built to last just like all Volvos. My only standing complaint is the cost to repair this vehicle it is not cheap.
Disappointed
betybeam, 12/28/2008
1998 Volvo S90 4dr Sedan
2 of 3 people found this review helpful
I have owned the S90 for 9 years now and enjoyed driving the car but there are too many repairs to mention. The body of the car has quickly been deteriorating since I bought it. I also expected better fuel econmy. After reading the reviews for this car I think i got the lemon. Glad to hear so many people are pleased with the car. Sadly because of this car I will not be buying another Volvo.
Much has gone wrong
Thomas, 09/15/2010
1998 Volvo S90 4dr Sedan
2 of 3 people found this review helpful
I bought the car new and serviced perfectly. After replacing timing belt the tension unit broke destroying the new timing belt that required engine re-build... other items include.....new a.c unit and computer box...new transmission and two computer shift modules.....two radiators. So much money invested into car I cannot afford to sell or trade in.The car only has 136,000 miles on it.I have spent close to $9,000.00 on these items. Obviously not very impressed with quality.
Very nice car >> so far:)
ANTMAN, 05/13/2005
1998 Volvo S90 4dr Sedan
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
I bought this a few weeks ago when my Honda died at 183K. I HAVE PUT OVER 1000 MILES ON IT, HOWEVER This My 4th Volvo (244, 740 x 2) and this one has 140K on it. I had a pre inspection, and will change the lower bushings and timing belt, plus tune and etc. for under $1000.00. Since I paid $4500.00 with a trade, I found tremendous value here. True quality and solid as they come.
Why it's Good
Hector, 10/13/2007
1998 Volvo S90 4dr Sedan
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
Great car, no doubt. Sturdy, strong, and surprisingly fast. All things aside, a smooth ride.
Ok on Volvo S90
VolvoOwner777, 03/09/2002
1998 Volvo S90 4dr Sedan
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
I like this car. It has been sturdy and reliable. Note, however, that I did buy it before warranty expiration and I did have some warrantied replacement work done on the interior leather panels, and had an engine temperature sensor and thermostat replaced (cheerfully) by the dealer.
I Love This car!!
STUBBERFIELD, 09/17/2002
1998 Volvo S90 4dr Sedan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
This is my 6th and favorite Volvo! I will drive it till the wheels fall off! Other than routine maintinence I haven't had any problems and I have over 80K miles
WOW!
RamonSanchez316, 02/27/2003
1998 Volvo S90 4dr Sedan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
This is the absolutely without a doubt the best vehicle I have ever owned! We have an Infiniti I30, a Volvo 240, and a Mitsubishi Eclipse, and this is all of those vehicles combined plus! Bring this car back!
1998 Volvo S90 - J Vines
J Vines, 09/16/2003
1998 Volvo S90 4dr Sedan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
We bought it as a program car in June, 2001. It is now Sept, 2003. Car has 85,000 miles on it now. Other than a new timing belt and serpentine belt and a set of plugs, nothing has been done except change oil/filter every 3K miles. Performance and handling are outstanding! Comfort and back support are excellent. Reliability is outstanding. Even on long trips, we arrive rested and in comfort. It is rated for premium fuel, but I run good regular gas with no problems. I expect the car to last at least 200K miles. I don't understand why it doesn't hold its value very well on the used car market. A Volvo like mine would be a bargain for anyone.
Represent Volvo Well
SmithDB, 05/08/2004
1998 Volvo S90 4dr Sedan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
My new/used S90 only has 55,000 miles on it now and has been nothing but flawless. The inline 6 engine is like silk and shifts are smooth and powerful. The intertior is like riding in a private jet with all of the neccessary amenities in top fit and finish. I have made a good purchase and for somebody who keeps their cars for at least six years I feel that this S90 will last. I would expect nothing less from a car company that produces million mile examples of rolling strength (Volvo).
isn't she lovely?
Luke skywalker, 08/31/2004
1998 Volvo S90 4dr Sedan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Bought the car used at 29000km in 2001, in 2004 i changed suspensions, transmission sensor, core heater( what a job 7 hrs). I strongly believe it's the safest car and the most confortable car for long 6hrs ride. Apart from having trouble finding parts for the car light wipers everything is lovely, the one I love the most drive this car. The suspension is not like a boat a bit rough but now you know if your city is taking care of your streets, i changed stab links at leats 3 times at the front ( it's a heavy car.
Pleasantly Surprises
Handbag Diva, 09/09/2004
1998 Volvo S90 4dr Sedan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
We had gone to the dealership to buy an SUV and found the S90 Sedan. What a blessing. We are so pleased with our purchase. It is used so it has a few minor paint scrapes, but we had it checked out with a mechanic and he said it is in great condition. The car feels solid and sturdy, the inside is pleasant and soft and the ride is smooth. I'm glad Volvo didn't make more because we have one of the few diamonds. We hope to trade in our other car if a few years and buy a used Volvo SUV. That way we can get our SUV and still get a great car.
Satisfaction
Lee, 06/23/2006
1998 Volvo S90 4dr Sedan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I love my S90. After owning 2 240DL's, I wanted a step up in the Volvo family and I got it! I have driven this car for 4 years and I still enjoy cruising with it. The only complaint I have is the so-so gas mileage.
best volvo
Ariel S, 03/21/2003
1998 Volvo S90 4dr Sedan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I love this car, it is extreamly safe full of luxury and is fast. what more could you want in a car?
young guy loves his volvo
CANNON, 05/12/2003
1998 Volvo S90 4dr Sedan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
very classy vehicle inside and out, good performance and outstanding handling at high speeds. great stereo and speaker system. lots of trunk space...this car made driving fun again!
VOLVO S90 1998
Gus, 03/20/2002
1998 Volvo S90 4dr Sedan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
had problems with small stuff, airbag light kept coming on, abs light. biggest problem was the track on the sun roof broke serverl time (PLASTIC)