We have a 2006 Audi A4 wagon that has been in an accident sometime in its past. We found this out when a rainstorm passed through and soaked our carpets via a bad seal in the windshield. I got to see some of the damage to the A-pillar and it looks straight, but has definitely been "repaired" right at the base.
So two questions: Would you still use a car like this as your primary "family car" (wife and kids)?
-and-
We are looking at a 2002 Volvo V70 as a replacement. AWD, 2.4l engine. Roughly $6k. Thoughts?
I think $6k is high for an '02 V70.
The average wholesale auction price on 2002 Volvo V70 2.4T wagons in the last 90 days was $2917. The highest transaction price at auction was $5000, and the lowest was $1150. Data sample was 7 transactions. Either they have a lot of room to come off, or you need to get someone to get you one at auction. ;)
yeah, unfortunately $6k seems to be the " lower going rate" for these over here. Here is the Volvo in question: http://www.hasznaltauto.hu/auto/volvo/v70/volvo_v70_2.4_t_awd_automata-6354123
The kicker is I just spent over $200 on discs and pads all around on the Audi (I've yet to install them though), along with 4-new winter tires ($600), AND it just went in the shop with EGR problems about the same time the window started leaking. With the EGR problem and the window it looks like it's going to be close to $600 by the time the Skoda dealership is done with her (assuming the don't break the window when they remove it).
So there ya go. Good times right? 
Wish I could ship a few that way. We have a underappreciation for both Volvos and wagons here in the good ole South.
I have an '01 V70. I held out for a car with a T5, manual transmission and no sunroof and I'm glad I did. Compared to my grandparents' auto 2.4 turbo it's a big difference. Overall it's a fantastic car. Nice interior, good handling, decent online community. Mine has over 220k miles and nothing serious has gone wrong, but I've heard that the automatic transmissions are a trouble spot.
But if I could do it all over again I'd insist on a vehicle with RWD.
Bill, sounds like we're in this together. The Zx2 just rolled out the driveway and I need a new car. I want a Volvo wagon and am being steered more towards the older RWD models.
I wish I could have found a Volvo Wagon. I found a couple of 240s for sale.. but they were all Automatics. the 850 I bought was the ONLY manual Volvo in 5 states
In reply to mad_machine:
Have yourself a roadtrip! I got mine from Philadelphia while I was living in Los Angeles.
wjones
New Reader
11/15/12 10:58 p.m.
In reply to Hungary Bill:
Yes, I would still use the A4 as long as you can keep it dry inside.
We are on our second V70 wagon. Had a 99 GLT and have a 07 5 cyl. non-turbo. I am sorry we won't have the option to get a newer one in the future.
I've gotta admit that I'm partial to the rear-drive, manual cars but the wife hates manual transmissions... I figured the AWD automatic was a good neutral ground for the both of us, plus I only have to drive it on road trips etc.
I would love an older 240 but there's only 2 for sale on that site and both are manuals 
I'm trying to talk her into an old 1800 but again with the manual transmission, and she wants a station wagon...
Good times
Take it to a reputable body shop and have it inspected? You don't want to be driving a car with a compromised safety cell.
jpnovak
New Reader
11/16/12 12:04 p.m.
Careful of the V70 with an automatic. They all have the AW50-55 transmission. The pump and aolenoid packs go bad on them with surprising regularity.
I had an 03 V70. Loved the car but the transmission was gone at 108K. Dumped the car since a replacement was more than the car was worth. I could not find anyone to fix or rebuild. They just replace them.
By far the most versatile and comfortable car I have owned. I miss it but don't miss the shift flares and lack of 2nd and sometimes 3rd gear.
In reply to jpnovak:
Tranny issue got fixed (software & solenoids) by '04. Fresh fluid makes a big difference too. The later cars are pretty much trouble free. I have over 130K on mine.
Problem Solved.
