Volvo Repair: volvo for teen, car airconditioning, timing belts

Question
hi and happy turkey day.
i am looking for a volvo for my 16 y/o daughter and looking to spend bout 7K$. In my research which model(1998 or newer) should i AVOID. and what bout staying away from turbo. just need transpo that is SAFE.
thanks again

js

Answer
Joe, my personal recommendation would be the 98 S70.  Turbo or non turbo, there are only a few issues that are normal for that car.  Airconditioning Evaporators, ABS control units and silly trim items.  Brakes, etc are normal.  Timing belts and all tensioners and pulleys should be replaced every 70 thousand miles.  You dont want the belt to break on that motor.  Bent valves, etc.  3-4 thousand in repairs.  Turbo cars are  great but for a 16 year old, she doesnt need all that.  The turbos would have additional issues like Turbo hoses going bad and are more labor intensive for repair costs.  Stay Away From any thing that says S80.  You will thank me now.  The v70 wagons are good but AWD is costly as well.  I hope this helps.  Happy Thanksgiving, Roger