Unless you have a specific need for the AWD capabilities of the 2001 XC, be sure to drive the 2.4T and T5 versions of the V70. The XC has been designed by Volvo to compete in the SUV market, and in so doing, gives up several performance abilities. Although one might think that AWD would offer improved handling, etc. that is not the case with the Volvo 2001 XC due to increased weight, raised cg, truck tires, etc.<P>With the XC you are sacrificing handling, braking, performance, fuel mileage, not to mention the higher initial cost, for 2 things: the aura of an SUV, and AWD. Having owned a Volvo XC and a T5, I can tell you that the only occasion where AWD might be of value over FWD is if you live deep in snow country, and particularly if you have a long unplowed driveway, etc. If these conditions don't apply, what a penalty to pay for something that you would rarely, if ever find of use. And I haven't even mentioned the added maintenance problems of AWD.