'94 850 (na)

[blu88notch]

I need some honest opinions and input. My knowledge is basically in domestic stuff so here I am. I'm looking at a 94 non turbo with 150k (240k km) on the clock. Tell me the good bad and ugly on these cars. What are common issues? What kind of longevity do you typically see in the 2.4 and the rest of the drive train? how do the bodies hold up to many winters? where should I look for corrosion? What is realistic highway fuel mileage since it will be used 90% highway. I've seen the ad should I take a look or ignore? He wants $2500 Canadian.

Thanks people!

[quarterdime]

I have a 1996 Volvo 850, and I bought it with 119,000 miles.

Problems that mine had when I bought it (bold ones are still issues):

- Several exterior bulbs burnt out
- Speedometer does not light up, makes driving at night a bit dangerous
- Passenger window did not go up
- Winter Mode switch broken
- ABS module doesn't work, needs to be replaced
- Brakes severely worn
- Dashboard rattles
- Steering groans when coming out of a sharp right turn
- Gas tank leaked (recalled by Volvo, fixed for free
- Power antenna doesn't completely retract

And since I've bought it, it's stopped receiving FM radio.

These cars are known for being very resistant to rust; the only bad spot on mine is the tail pipe. Not bad for a car that's spent 11 years in the "salt belt."

The engine is excellent, and the transmission is also strong. Just remember, there's a reason that Volvo didn't change the design of the 2.4L I5 for 14 years. That being said, you could expect 250,000 miles from the car, as long as you take care of it.

As for gas mileage, I get about 19 city and 27 highway.

$2500 Canadian is a pretty good price. Just make sure you test drive it first.