1997 Volvo 850 T-5 For Sale

by Vivek Nayyar

Published: May 5th, 2026

This 1997 Volvo 850 T-5 is a well-documented, enthusiast-owned sedan located in Redmond, Washington. Representing the final model year of the 850 series, this T-5 has been with its third owner for over eight years and shows 152,000 verified miles. The vehicle has been primarily DIY-serviced with high-quality OEM parts and features several thoughtful upgrades, including an 850 R engine computer and a modern touchscreen head unit with Apple CarPlay. While it retains its original California/Washington rust-free status, it is being offered as a transparent and honest driver-quality car for its next caretaker.

Location: Redmond, Washington/USA

Price: $3,500.00

Key Details

Make/Model: Volvo 850 T-5 Sedan
Mileage: 152,000 miles
Engine: 2.3L Turbocharged B5234T3 Inline-5
Transmission: 4-speed Automatic
History: Third owner for 8+ years; enthusiast-owned and DIY-maintained
Title: Clean (Washington State)

Condition

Rust-free chassis with original single-stage paint (excluding hood)
Recent comprehensive timing belt service performed
Healthy PCV system using genuine Volvo components
Reconditioned ABS module and reinforced dashboard mounts
Interior features functional climate control and working heat/AC
Dashboard pad shows UV warping; headliner is starting to sag in the rear
Front seats show typical leather wear; rear seats are in good condition

Performance Highlights

Turbocharged high-pressure T-5 engine configuration
Upgraded engine computer (ECU) from a Volvo 850 R
Reconditioned ABS module from Midwest ABS
Religious oil changes every 3,000–5,000 miles with full synthetic and Mann filters

Known Issues

AC has a slow leak likely originating from the evaporator
Hood clear coat has failed; paint on the rear spoiler is faded
Front left CV axle boot is torn (no noise yet)
Oil cooler thermostat recently began squealing during warm-up
Trip computer in the cluster is intermittent; rear window switch is finicky
Left turn signal occasionally fails to self-cancel

Upgrades & Features

Double-din touchscreen head unit with wired Apple CarPlay
Rockford Fosgate front door speakers
Functional retracting power antenna with dedicated switch
Includes two sets of floor mats (carpet and all-weather rubber)
Added cabin air filter housing (not factory standard for 1997)
Comes with owner’s manual, service records, and spare seat leather skin

Additional Information

The car is sold on original 16-inch "Columba" wheels; 17-inch BBS Propus wheels are available to bundle
Per Washington state law, the vehicle will be sold without license plates
Detailed maintenance includes a recent timing belt, water pump, and PCV overhaul
More photos available on Google Photos