trade my XC70 for V70R - yes or no?

[bap 122S]

To start, I know there are many knowledgeable people on this forum who offer good advice.

I have enjoyed my 2005 XC70 for almost two years now, and was really happy when I got it. But...my real desire was to get a V70R. Well one just showed up at a local Volvo dealer. So I am opening myself up for pros and cons for each vehicle.

My 05 has 118K miles on it. Great condition.
The V70R is a 2004 with 77K miles. It is AWD and has the third seat.

Factors to consider, I have 4 kids, but my wife does have the minivan that accommodates all of us. We live in NH so we get snow and there are potholes. I have a short commute to work, but a couple times a month I have long trips. I also believe life is too short to drive something you don't love. I have yet to even drive a V70R, I only know what I have read about them.

[JRL]

I've owned several of both so I guess I'm it.

1st: an R really isn't a good snow car. It has 5.2" of front ground clearance, after that it becomes a plow.

2nd: you have the 4C suspension to deal with and all its issues (do some research).

3rd: the 04 was the first year and have a few glitches, most of were fixed by 2005 which are generally better vehicles all around (05-07), not too mention they look better with painted side and bumper moldings and the upgraded interiors. Also 05s and newer have better front seats!

I assume this is an automatic?
The 06's and 07's have the 6 speed and are significantly quicker than the 04 and 05s.

If you think you want an R, hold out for a good 06-07

[bap 122S]

JRL,
Thank you for the good data based feedback.

I was able to get to the dealership this evening, which was over an hour away...and I came back home with my XC70.

After test driving the V70R I did not think the performance and handling improvements over the XC70 were enough to justify the purchase (the trade in value they were going to give me was too low). Yes it was faster and more nimble, but not a huge difference.

When I bought my XC70 I traded in my Ford Explorer, now that was a big improvement. I guess I was thinking going from an XC70 to a V70R would be like that, but it wasn't.

The XC70 handles well enough and has enough power for me.

[JRL]

If it was an 06-07 it would be