Volvo 850 Estate 2.3 T-5R 5d (1994/M) Owner Review
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Economy
Value
You can pick up a T5-R relatively cheap these days.
Costs
When servicing is neglected, the car costs a lot to run. Front tyres tend to wear down quickly.
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On the road
Driving
Heavy clutch and the steering lock leaves a lot to be desired, but apart from that it's an exciting car to drive.
Performance
The T5-R could be said to be a 'super estate'. It's a very quick car with pretty good handling. The only thing which lets it down is that if you try and boot it out of corners and islands in 2nd gear, traction is near on impossible.
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Living with it
Reliability
The car is generally reliable, but if thrashed then will generally blow turbo's easily and engine parts may have to be replaced.
Image
In bright yellow, the Volvo 850 T5-R stands out of the crowd; not just your average Volvo estate but a 'super estate which boasts its masculinity'.
Comfort
It's a comfortable car to drive and to be driven in. The suspension is hard so therefore is a hard ride, but apart from that it's very comfortable.
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Security and Service
Security
The T5-R has a factory-fitted alarm which can be operated remotely.
Service
Pretty good, but they could never supply the equivilant for a loan car whilst servicing.
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Problems and Ownership
Problems
Engine
Our's has done 205,000 miles and it's on its 3rd engine (second was faulty) and 2nd turbo. It currently drives superb and doesn't show its age.
Other
Ownership
Did you buy the car new?
Used
Would you buy the same model again?
Yes
Did you buy from the same manufacturer again?
Yes