Just returned from viewing the Volvo. A nice surprise I got was that the owner was a Volvo dealer mechanic, evident from the greasy blue shirt the the logo and local dealer's name. No proof of this but it's obviously well serviced: fresh coolant and oil so clean you have to hold the dipstick at an angle to see it. Peering underneath, there's even fresh grease on the endstops where the steering hits full lock. Full service history consists of a complete collection of invoices and checklists, right from the pink slip for the first oil change at 3000 to the last full service at 90,000, which included a cambelt change. Not the slightest wisp of smoke when the engine was started. Small repairs are also detailed: new rear discs because of scoring, new thermostat, new engine mount etc. General wear & tear stuff, really.
Cosmetically, it has two little dings down the nearside and one larger one on the front of the bonnet. These are being sorted by a dent specialist before I collect the car. Paint is generally excellent, couldn't find a scratch of any significance and there isn't any real stonechip damage to speak of. Just a few very light ones that virtually disappear when you rub the wax away. The one paintwork problem is that the lacquer has crazed at one side of the rear bumper. I intend to have this resprayed as I don't believe it will be expensive. Alloys all perfect except N/S front, which has been scuffed once right on the rim and is corroding slightly in the middle.
Inside it has a bit of wear on the very outside edge of the drivers seat, but much less than on the primera. The seats are firm and comfortable and have not sagged at all. Rest of the interior is immaculate.
On the road it would be better judged by someone with previous experience of the car, but all I can say is it's like driving a new car. Steering smooth and positive, brakes keen, clutch light to operate (although it engages quite sharply, I guess this is because of the power it has to deal with. When I went on a Ferrari drive, their clutches were similar). No vibrations, noises, etc. It accelerates like a rocket! Small delay for the turbo, then it surges forward and pins you into the seat! By far the most powerful car I've driven.
From the asking price of £3000, I negotiated a sale for £2750. This allows for the fact that the bumper could do with a respray and the tyres haven't much life left in them. Although they're all Pirelli P6000s (no skimping,then), unscuffed and evenly worn, the tread is getting rather low on all of them and none of them are going to get very far before I have to shell out on new ones.
So what do you reckon? Still a bit pricey for an 8 year old car with 96k? Personally, I'm felling rather pleased with myself. I reckon I've got an excellent example of a performance luxury saloon that is worth the money. It's a lovely car and despite it's higher age and mileage. it's general condition is equal to that of my Primera :-)