Dude, first don't get any Volvo with a T6 engine and a automatic transmission (S80, XC90). There are a shitload of those on the market for cheap cuz people are dumping them. The GM transmission can't handle the torque and its guaranteed to fail.
Personally, I used to be a SAAB person before GM fucked them and would not buy any Volvo. Volvos have crappy handling and acceleration compared to SAAB.
I have a E46 330Xi. It has 120k miles and has been pretty reliable for about the past 18 months. Just 2 weeks ago I replaced a accessory pulley and radiator hose for $400 installed. Just today I did a water pump and accessory belt for $500 installed.
One think you didn't think about is the attention you will get - from haters and cops. My SAAB was faster the the bimmer and I never got pulled over (with no ticket) or cut off my haters. Now I do. Whats weird is that many VWs are basically Audis and none of my Dubber friends get the hate and attention. It all about the badge.
If you get a Bimmer with all wheel drive and Nokian tires- you will have a Subaru killer. Without driving some Cliche Subaru (about half the cars in SLC are Subarus).
