And let's not assume that I'm talking about me driving one old Volvo. I mean several different models, shapes and weights of older Volvos, RWD American cars like Mavericks, Valiants, Concords, etc. I've also driven FWD cars like the 323/Tracer hatchback, Honda Civics, 90s Camry, Gen III Prius, etc. So while my experience is largely pre traction control*, it isn't small. I think that Vitaminj's experience is mostly with RWD cars that are designed for traction and handling, not everyday mass market cars. Most FWD cars, BTW, will recover from an understeer-slide better if light to moderate power is applied, and most RWD cars won't fishtail if you back off the throttle.
* The Gen III Prius would be better off with no traction control. It paralyzes the car on ice, and turning it off is amazingly difficult.