Thanks for the feedback guys. Greatly appreciated.
Matt: yeah, I know what you mean about being scared about the Volvo AWD. I'm terrified of what its going to cost, and without a dealership nearby for me, its pretty likely I'd have to drive to Calgary to get it done. Thing is, if the rest of the car is good, and its really cheap, or if the driveline has already been done, then I'm not too worried about it. If I can get one for 6k, then I'm still getting a pretty nice car even if I have to spend a few more grand on the drivetrain. I've been looking at this:
http://www.autotrader.ca/a/Volvo/XC70/C ... _5578809_/and this:
http://alberta.kijiji.ca/c-cars-vehicle ... Z387797890For some reason I really like the white in these cars, and the green is kinda unique too. Both are '03+, so they're Haldex cars, which is what I'd aim for. Although you mention '99-'03 as being problematic....what have you heard there?
Eurovans. I'd like them for being a slightly newer powertrain. I'd love a Westy, but the Wasserboxer has been nothing but grief to most people I know. And honestly, I don't think I could handle that little power. My ideal would be a later watercooled Westy with a TDi in the back, and yes, and Syncro. Drooool. But that would end up being a huge project. So the Eurovan might be a better option in a VR6. Here in Canada they are crazy expensive, so Athal is keeping his eyes open in Japan. For a daily driver I don't think I'd like it, but for summers it would be great. The half Westy thing you mention would be cool too.
As for 240's, part of me is still really torn on not driving one. On one hand, I've had one my whole life. I know how to work on them, I have lots of spare parts, and I've got a network of sources for parts and help. But, I feel like I'm limiting myself. I love so many other cars out there, so would like to try something new too. So I dunno. Too much of a good thing....perhaps. This one came up and I thought I could do it, being a manual and all....
http://alberta.kijiji.ca/c-cars-vehicle ... Z386865923Hahah! Don't like the Allroad eh? Fair enough. I'd love one, except they'd probably make a P2 XC look reliable. The GTi I'd love is this:
Just love that colour and those wheels. Yes, I'd be tempted to make it my summer toy, but it would be fairly reliable which is the main thing.
Tacomas. Thought about them, yep. But really, I don't need a truck at all. If I were to do it, I'd probably get a Four-Runner instead. A friend just bought a later one and lifted it/put on proper tires, and I liked driving it a fair bit. But I'd still rather have an XC for some reason. Or I'd go full out and go for a Land Cruiser or a G-Wagen.
Jim: thanks for your thoughts. Very cool to know people like the Smurf, and had noticed it! I've had a few people wave at me in which is cool. But its good to hear people like it...it definitely makes me want to keep it more. And that's what's bugging me about a lot of cars I'm looking at: no personality. Boring. It makes me sad thinking I won't have something that's recognizable anymore. Like you say...buying an appliance. I just don't know if I can do it. And I'm sure Jack appreciates the business!
Good to know more about your experiences with your '02. Scary stuff. I had seen that video of the XC vs. the Subaru, and I just couldn't figure out how the Volvo was that bad. It had to have been broken in some way is what I figure, as I just couldn't figure out why the rear wheels weren't moving. At any rate, yeah, the early XC's at least the AWD is pretty crappy. I believe the Haldex at least solved some of the issues.
Again, yeah, not sure I need a truck, but it would be handy at times. What would the Restore do? Blow out all the crap?
So other than the stuff posted above, I will say Athal and I have been chatting a fair bit, and there's been some bids put in on some stuff out in Japan, so far two SWB G-Wagens and a W124 E320 wagon. Haven't gotten anything yet, but I would give my left nut for a G-Wagen. I love those things so much. Its not a rational choice, but if I could afford one (which maybe I can), I would love to own one.