2002 v70xc versus 2003+ xc70

[arslanh]

Can someone shed some light on the differences between the 2002 v70XC versus 2003+ XC70

I understand the difference is the AWD system and 10 more HP. I drove both and could not tell the difference.

I am looking at a 2002 17K miles in nautic blue for $31K and a 2003 white (not the color I want) with 13K miles for $32000.

Thoughts would be appreciated. email: [email protected]

[mhoy]

The older viscous coupled AWD is not as good as the electronic Haldex in the newer models.  I think the older system is much more sensitive to even tire wear than the newer system.  I'm not certain which have a better repair record.

Personally, I'd go with the newer Haldex.  If you note your location, other member may be able to help out if they know of other cars in your area/price range with the colors you prefer.

Check out edmunds.com or other online methods for pricing on new vehicles.

[arslanh]

I am in Chicago, IL

I found a useful related link: http://www.findarticles.com/cf_dls/m3012/6_180/63565214/print.jhtml

[arslanh]

Different Types of AWD Systems: http://autozine.kyul.net/technic....d_2.htm (http://autozine.kyul.net/technical_school/traction/tech_traction_4wd_2.htm)

[TrueBlue]

Whilst not disagreeing with mhoy, it really depends on where your priorities lie; If your needs are really tighter control on normal roads, then the VC equipped car will be satisfactory, it also has slightly better fuel consumption (I got 27-8 mpg -imperial gallons out of mine). There are lots of posts in support of the VC cars, and I loved mine - until I tested in the conditions for which I bought the car; then I was less happy.

However if you want to drive up slippery hills from a standing start, then the Haldex does the job properly. See the movies Here (http://xc70.com/cgi-bin/ib3/ikonboard.cgi?act=ST;f=1;t=1989;st=0)

Fuel consumption is slightly worse - I'm struggling to get 25mpg out of mine.

Haldex cars are likely to be equiped with DSTC - which is a useful feature under extreme conditions.

You may also have the rain sensitive wipers in the later car. Initially I thought this was merely a a nice toy; now I leave the wipers on "intermittent" all the time and let the car decide when to wipe.

To me the later car seems better value, you will probably have a longer warranty period outstanding. The only sticking point from your post is the colour.
Ask yourself, can you really live with it?

As somebody said in another post; you are driving the car and don't see the colour, another member said that dark colours have more accidents.

If you want value and drive on snowy roads in the winter, then the 2003 model is your better bet.

If you plan on only keeping the car for a short while, then you should be aware that metallic colours are more popular, so the vehicle may be more difficult to sell on.

[mhoy]

arslanh: Great links. From them I'd gather the older viscous coupling systems should be cheaper to repair than a Haldex system. (Less parts to go wrong).

yahoo's car search for chicago, 2003 V70XC in black(No relation to seller and other disclaimers).

Your price was better though...

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