Hi, Volvo fans,

I'm considering buying a car next year for about $5,000. I am seriously considering buying a Swedish car, which should be either a SAAB 900 or some Volvo. As of Volvo, I really like the look of S70, V70 and V70XC and their techincal specs look really good. However, I also realize that $5,000 is not much when it comes to a well maintained vehicle. Plus, I probably won't afford to fix it a lot. That is why I'm also consider buying an 850. I did some research on pricing of Volvos and what I discovered is that it is definitely possible to get a decent S70, V70 or V70XC for $5,000 with 150,000+ miles on them; however, if I stick with an 850, I can get one with only 100,000 -- 120,000 miles with the money that I have. So my question is if it is worth maintenance-wise to get a newer model with more miles on it, rather than an older model with fewer miles?

Also, maybe it's not the right place to ask, but would a SAAB 900 be a better choice for me?

I've got two 850 and except for regular tuneups on oneof them, no probs. The other was always meant to be highly modified. If you are handy, go for the 850. Either model is great. So is the Saab. Just up to you, apples or oranges? Good luck.