Volvo Repair: 1999 volvo s70 5 cyl, volvo s 70, timing belt replacement

Question
my 1999 volvo s 70 has 125,000, it is in perfect condition, i change oil every 4,000 but wonder why volvo says the timing belt should be changed now...it doesn't sound loose, not noise of any kind and i just changed the serpentine belt.  what happens if the timing belt were to break, does it really mess up other parts that will cost a lot more if not changed at certain times.  most other cars never mention changing the timing belt?  i also have a 94, 940 turbo that i have changed the timing belt at 80,000 and at 155,000, but do i really need to change them like volvo recommends?  it's not expensive on the 940 but the s70 is about $700.

Answer
Larry, well, you are overdue.  It should have been changed at the 105k service.  If that belt were to break, all the valves would bend and the cylinder head would have to be repaired, all the valve guides and stems as well as all 20 valves to be replaced so a total of 4000 dollars parts and labor is a lot more expensive than a 400 dollar timing belt replacement.  Whoever is charging you 700 bucks is ripping you off.  The 940 belts by the way were supposed to be done at the 50,000 mile mark. You were lucky with those, belt breaks, replace it and you are on your way.  I hope this education has made you realize that belt replacement at the recommended intervals is very important. Roger