£8k S Max v £3k V70 to ferry children

[Legend83]

Really it is a question of initial outlay against risk of big bills on an older car. Is the V70 boot that big? We like the idea of having 7 seats as an option.

Also, used the search facility but it keeps freezing. Can someone post a link to the thread over Christmas about 7 seats without looking like a tt?

Thanks!

[RAH]

I've owned both. The S-Max is much better, both to drive and in terms of practicality.

It's also been more reliable (after the first year niggles).

[chrisispringles]

The Volvo is very good, but there are a few issues. All models built during or before 2002 (2001 for turbocharged ones) are known for Electronic Throttle Module failiures which costs about £500 to put right. Other than that they are very solid, dependdable cars.

The boot of a V70 is pretty big, but it if you are worried about it then look at the S210 Mercedes E-Class as well. They are much bigger inside than the Volvo and £3k will get you a decent E320 or E320 CDi if you want a diesel .Most of them have the 7 seat option which isn't too bad, I managed about an hour or so in the boot of my dad's without too much trouble and I'm about 6 foot. They are fairly solid cars apart from the fact that the rust is as bad as people say it is. It all rusts, even the roof. The front suspension is also a weak point as its perch is very thin and, you guessed it, it rusts as well. If you can find one that is rust free then you're laughing because it is really only the rust that kills them. Over 3 years my dad's needed a replacement crankshaft position sensor and some suspension bushes, other than that is was very reliable except for the fact that it was rusty when we bought it and cornflakes when we got rid.

E320

E320 CDi

HTH.