QuestionWe are choosing to buy a used Volvo and need help determining which car
will provide us the least amount of future repair work and the maximum
amount of drivable miles. We need three more years(10K miles/yr) of use
from the car we buy. Here are the choices:
Car One: 1994 850 GL Turbo Wagon w/180,000 miles. It has had one
owner, no registered accidents, passed the recent smog, no leaks. The
original owner sold it to our mechanic who specializes in Swedish cars. He
would offer us a 1 year warranty. $4,000 asking price.
Car Two: 850 GLT Turbo Wagon w/120,000 miles. Two owners, first owner
registered as a Corporate Fleet car, second owner is the current seller. No
accidents registered to this vin, passed smogs, engine light came on during
test drive and some muffler rattling was hear. Only test drove on surface
streets. No warranty but the owner agreed to have the car examined by our
mechanic. $5,500 asking price.
If the diagnostic reports are similar, is there a way to predict which car will
last
longer for us? We really want three more years with minimal repair needs in
order to save up for our next car.
Thank you for considering our inquiry.
AnswerKatherine,
Both sound like good cars. Having them inspected by a shop that works on Volvos is a really good idea. Not a terribly large difference in price. I would be tempted to buy the one that has 120K because when you go to sell it it will have less miles and easier to sell, not to mention maybe less in total maintenance during ownership. So if the one that has 120K checks out good and without major flaws, that would be my choice. On a car there in not any way to make a prediction, as they are machines and no way can we see inside to see the wear and tear that has gone on. Just get as much info on both cars and make the best possible choice with that info and go with it.
