Volvo: used volvo choice, minor improvements, opertunity

Question
QUESTION: Can you recommend a specific year cross country (xc) wagon? I am considering a 2002, 2003 and 2005 models. Safety is my biggest concern. Are they all comparable or is one year significantly better than the others? Thanks

ANSWER: John,
The later year car might be better. There were quite a few problems with the AWD units. Most times I stay away. If there is one you like have it inspected by a Volvo shop for all good and bad, get a list. Also see if you can purchase a warranty that will cover things like leaking seals and final drive/transmissions/driveshafts in case of failure.

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Can you tell me the difference between a 2004 2.5L DOHC engine and a 2005 2.5L turbo engine? (both in XC 70) Is there any difference in the hp and any other specs of the engine? Do you know of any concerns with either?
with many thanks...


Answer
John,
As far as I see the engines are the same. There might be some minor improvements, nothing major. Those cars have not had the opertunity to stack up a ton of miles, so nothing bad at this point. Have it looked at for problems and what service has been done and what is needed.