also, my impressions.
S40 -- Could be a very nice car with the S60's engine and a 5 speed. the wagon is a better buy than the sedan, but neither are that well priced or exciting to look at.
S60 T5 -- Very nice car, but sort of smallish for $36,000. Lots of turbo lag from a stop, but once in the 2500 RPM range, there's a ton of power. Needed to drive a 5 speed to really have some fun. The computer got confused when the ABS engaged before a turn and wouldn't allow me to stomp on the gas right after the stop. I tried the same maneuver in tiptronic mode, but the computer overridded 1st gear and started me in 2nd after the ABS engaged. Would I buy the car? Probably not. Too small and non-descript. I like the I35/G35 or used M3 better for the same money.
S80 T6 -- Much smoother/better engine than the S60. Comprised of a 6 sylinder and 2 smaller turbos, there was no turbo lag and plenty of umph from a stop. This engine in the S60 would be a great combo. The car is too big for me, and very heavy through corners. Lots of body roll. Maybe if a tuner got their hands on it, it would be a better bet.
In conclusion, I think the SVT is a better "driver's" car than all three of the above. Not as many bells and whistles to interfere with your experience as the Volvos. THey are nice, however, and the S60 T5-R promises to be something special if it ever gets to this country.
