Why a Volvo?

[dema]

hi all,

Currently looking to change car (again)and while scouring the other forums I've notice that the S60 D5 does come up often as a weapon of choice. I had a look on Autotrader to get an idea, the look wouldn't make me buy the car straight away but I do need to have a look at one in the flash. Figures, seems to vary by a fair bit, from 180bhp 140 top speed and 180bhp with nearly 300 lbs/ft for an 07 car to 160 bhp, 130 top speed with nearly 3 seconds difference on 0-60 for an 02 model. I know that those figures are all relative on real life but are considered when buying a new motor.
Down side seems to be the boot and planning a family in the near future this is something that I need to consider.
The V70 estate seems the choice to go for only based on having a bigger boot but again figures do vary a fair bit.

What are both like to drive? I know I can't except a sport car handling stile but I do enjoy my twisty roads which is important to me. What repairs bills and general maintenance are like? Anything to look out for?

If I wouldn't have to be sensible .... http://www.pistonheads.com/sales/4047851.htm or http://www.pistonheads.com/sales/4035324.htm



Thanks

[dema]

Thanks for the reply.

I didn't even know of the S60 R, on paper seems very good, I wander if you can swap suspension parts etc.

but, the 35mpg on the 850R is giving me food for thoughts.......

[dema]

for the engine size/weight, 25mpg sounds more realistic than, which would be better than my current car, anything between 24 and 30 and still gutless

[dema]

What is wrong with this one? http://www.pistonheads.com/sales/4041425.htm

High mileage could mean a new turbo needed soon but still below the average price...