The blow of Volvo's big switch over to front-wheel drive was lessened when they introduced a high-performance version of their venerable 850 model called the T-5R.
For starters, the 850 is THE Volvo of the 90s. Conservatively styled, still boxy, reliable and somewhat sporty, it pleased many a soccer moms and dads in American suburbs. A bunch were sold, passed down to their kids, then driven into the ground. They aren't as revered as the 240, but they certainly carried out their duties just as stoically.
Sensing a need for speed though, Volvo partnered with Porsche to create the limited production T-5R. Only 5,500 were made, and this is one of just 185 that were cream yellow. It's a bright color but it fits the car's attitude. T-5R were also fitted with Pirelli tires hugging 17 inch smoked alloys, front bumper lip, side skirts, rear spoiler, and polished aluminum door sills.
Inside, occupants were treated to a pumped up version of the ergonomic 850 interior, with graphite leather and alcantara seats and walnut wood grain accents.
Perhaps most importantly was what hid underneath the hood, a turbocharged 2.3-liter inline 5-cylinder engine that had psi boosted thanks to a special ECU resulting in a total of 243 horsepower and capable of launching from 0-60 mph in under 6 seconds. That's impressive stuff.
Even more impressive is this survivor, with a healthy 145k on the clock, 1 previous owner besides the current seller/dealer and and no accidents. The turbo engine needs extra care, so maintenance history is key, but knowing it has a pretty simple past with no known major crashes is great. This looks like a well-kept, stock example of a rare and special Volvo.
Available here on ebay for $9,495 and the Make Offer option.
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