940 or v70

[PEGE63]

Posted a wee note on the V70 section a few days ago (think it was some 2 weeks ago to see what they though about the V70 (MkI) as I just got 'that feelin' that it was time to go for something new. Anyway not a comment at all which surprised me. Only loads of logs re this and that (problems). Maybe the 940 is a more reliable car and that you all out there are more 'on the game' re recommending what good or not. Suppose that I will keep the 940 after all. Then again saw what looked like a superb V70 TDi CD spec in charcaol metallic (in Auto trader)- quite fance that - any of you out there in the 940 section that know anythin about 'em or can tell me the pro's and con's between the 2.5 10valve/20valve or the 2.4 T. Have driven the latter through work (and enjoyed it....).

The V70 is a nice car and has all the bells and whistles you could possibly want, BUT, if you intend to tow, remember that the V70 is front wheel drive and not too good on wet grass with a heavy trailer or caravan behind. I am led to believe that after the 1998 models the V70 became 'fly by wire' so bits get expensive and can't usually be DIY fitted. I have just put a V70 up for sale after 6+ months of trouble free motoring, but I have reverted to an older V90 so that I have the benefits of rear wheel drive for self leveling towing. My own opinion is that if you like it, stick with your 940, I would.
Hope I've convinced you, Regards, Bob.

[RollingThunder]

Hi Pege63,

I just sold my old 850 - the early V70s were basically facelifted 850s. Why? I didn't have any problems with it, except for one - the engine management system cannot cope with starting the engine from cold, then stopping it within a few minutes. Its a known problem, not just experienced by me - apparently its a mapping fault. If you do start/stop it in this way, it'll take about 40 minutes of effort to get it going again - including the use of a gas torch to heat up the plugs, lots of churning, and a skill that you soon learn - listening to hear when the engine is almost about to 'catch', then holding the accelerator absolutely still... its very very annoying. Otherwise, the car was exemplary - superb to drive and the estate handled like no estate I've ever driven.

But... service parts are more expensive, spares generally are more expensive, it is slightly more involved to troubleshoot, and it feels a lightweight after the 940. The interior particularly seemed more flimsy. Finally, I simply preferred the solid and dependable feel of the 940 despite the 850 being dynamically more enjoyable to drive.

My recommendation? Stick with the 940

[Andy_Gibson]

bit of a personal choice really go and have a test drive of both and see which you prefer.

The 850/v70 will handle much better but is a pain to park compaired to the 940 which has an excellent turning circle.

The 940 is very friendly to DIY servicing and easy access to various engine parts.

The 940 has an old fashioned interior/dash but I acually prefer it to my dad's V70 as it feels a lot better built

V70 seats are also smaller in size and with thinner and cheaper quality leather and the whole car of the v70 feels as if it wont last like the 940.

[ivor940]

Hi, dont forget that there is no equivalent to "700/900 FAQ" for V70. Re 940/960 turning circle, local Volvo dealer sales guy said he cannot get some owners of 940/960 to buy V70 due to the difference in turning circle. Also if you want 4 wheel drive, it is available only on V70. I tow boat trailers ( with 18 ft rowing boat) for local Scout troop, and one of the other parents has a '99 S70 2.5 manual. We often tow the same trailer and he finds the S70 fine for towing. He had a '91 940 Saloon 2.0 before.

ivor940
94 940 2.0 SE Turbo Estate 5 spd 166.8k
VOC member

[PEGE63]

Thanks for all your comments, I agree with them all ie great 'barge' best turning circle (apart from a black cab). And generally sturdy and best loadspace bar none. Also like the lack of fancy electronics as in the new cars. Lift the bonnet on ours and there is space around the engine (not that I do much work on it myself as I have a great ex.Volvo chap who knows it all for @ very good rates). Spoke to the local dealer here last year and he's having problems with all 940 owners as none wants to trade them in for newer models. I know why and it kind of worries me a bit as what do we go for next ??? This is why I changed my old J plate for a P as to get one as new as possible and then drive it 'forever'. OK I give up know on V70's, no more looking for other cars (Volvo ofcourse) for another 100K or so but you know what its like once it gets into you head, its difficult to shake it off.
It's now 'out of my system' now thanks to you lot.
All the best.