It started last summer: a call from a special customer. It was time to upgrade the ride. With two little ones having arrived since the last vehicle I put together for her, the old and faithful 244 just was not large enough for the entourage anymore. A wagon was the desired goal; and moving into a 700 wagon was the preferred choice.

A concern about the lack of power experienced with 700s that had been driven by Sarah was raised. She had only driven normally aspirated Volvos. I explained the solution: TURBO. I had her go roadtest a turbowagon. That resolved the issue: it would be a turbowagon.

The search began: I went to Chicago and to DC to check out two strong contenders. Both were disappointments. The decision was made: it had to be a black turbowagon; it had to have black leather; it had to have a sunroof; and it had to have a third seat.

The search resumed....codename: the Sarah Project

I found another candidate in Michigan. I drove up there to look it over. I dragged a friend known as 15A along to get his impressions and to utilize his keen eye for detail. I didn't actually drag 15A along; he did get to ride in the front seat; and we had a fun trip.

This Gallery is about what I did to the black turbowagon...to prepare it for its new owner.