1998-2004 Volvo C70: Full Review
Updated: 11/23/08
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Learn about the year-to-year changes and reliability for the 1998-2004 Volvo C70 and our price chart details a range of prices based on vehicle mileage and condition.
Pros
- Acceleration
- Build quality
- Standard antilock brakes
- Side airbags
- Steering/handling
Cons
- Rear-seat entry/exit
- Rear-seat room
- Ride (17-inch wheel models)
Vehicle Highlights
After making its reputation for decades with conservative, boxy sedans and station wagons, Volvo sought to update its image. Leading the charge into the future was this swoopy C70 coupe, which was Volvo's first coupe body style in seven years. Based on the front-wheel-drive S70 sedan and V70 wagon (which were 1998 updates of the 850 series), the coupe has similar exterior dimensions. Seating four instead of five, it wore curvier 2-door styling. Unlike the S70/V70, which offered a choice of three 5-cylinder engines, the C70 coupe came only with the most powerful version: a turbocharged dual-overhead-cam 2.3-liter, rated at 236 horsepower. A 5-speed manual transmission was standard, but most buyers were expected to take the optional automatic, which had Sport, Economy, and Winter shift modes. Only one well-equipped model went on sale, with standard front and side airbags, antilock brakes, 17-inch alloy wheels, and a power tilt/slide moonroof. Factory options were limited to a firmer sport suspension with 18-inch wheels, as well as a package comprising traction control, heated front seats, full leather upholstery and a 425-watt, 14-speaker audio system. Rivals included the BMW 3-Series coupe, Lexus SC 300/400, and Mercedes-Benz CLK. A convertible joined the coupe later in the season. Equipped with a power top and electrically defrosted glass rear window, the convertible and "base" coupe now used a turbocharged 190-horsepower 2.4-liter engine with automatic transmission. A sportier coupe model kept the initial 236-horsepower, 2.3-liter 5-cylinder.
Expert Ratings Summary (view detailed report)
| Category | Volvo C70 coupe Rating | |
|---|---|---|
| Performance | 7 | |
| Fuel Economy | 5 | |
| Ride Quality | 4 | |
| Steering/Handling/Braking | 6 | |
| Quietness | 5 | |
| Controls/Materials | 6 | |
| Interior Room | 6 | |
| Room/Comfort (rear) | 3 | |
| Cargo Capacity | 3 | |
| Value within Class | 2 | |
| Total Score: | 47 |
Learn about the year-to-year changes of the 1998-2004 Volvo C70. Get full details of the styling and performance changes throughout the history of the 1998-2004 Volvo C70.
Year to Year Changes
1999 Volvo C70:
Not much was new for 1999, with either the C70 coupe or convertible.
2000 Volvo C70:
Once again, the coupe and convertible went on sale with minimal change.
2001 Volvo C70:
No significant changes were made for 2001.
2002 Volvo C70:
Standard instead of optional for 2002 were traction control and heated front seats. Otherwise, no changes of note.
2003 Volvo C70:
Coupe version is discontinued. Both engines gained 7 horsepower.
2004 Volvo C70:
C70's base price is cut by $4245 in 2004.
Our road test for the 1998-2004 Volvo C70 includes a full evaluation from the inside out. We've evaluated every aspect of the 1998-2004 Volvo C70 and highlighted the vehicle's performance with pros and cons. Use our comprehensive road test ratings to decide if this generation 1998-2004 Volvo C70 is right for you.
Consumer Guide® Road-Test Evaluation
As on the performance-oriented T5 versions of the S70/V70, the coupe has a firm and somewhat choppy but acceptably supple ride, without the prominent tire thumping that plagued performance-oriented 850 sedans. Even so, the available 17-inch tires elicit harsh reactions to bumps. A convertible or "base" coupe rides more softly on 16-inch rubber. Steering is numb on-center, but provides good feel otherwise. The sporty-handling C70 has ample grip and little body lean in turns. Acceleration is satisfying with the base model, and very strong if the 2.3-liter engine is installed. Standing-start movement is good with either engine, and passing power is excellent. Volvo claimed a 0-60 mph time of 6.9 seconds, but our test C70s have not felt quite that fleet. As for economy, a 2.3-liter model yielded 19.9 mpg. Neither inline 5-cylinder engine is as smooth as some of today's V6s and "turbo lag" (a moment's delay in power delivery) is still bothersome at low and midrange speeds. The back seat is tighter than in sedan models, and it's much harder to get into or out of. The convertible's narrower back seat is even less accommodating. Volvo tried to improve rear entry/exit with a power sliding feature for both front seats; but the seats move forward like snails. Leg room is ample in front and head room is good despite the standard power moonroof. The driver's seat is comfortable and supportive, and visibility is good to all directions--except in the convertible when its top is up. Driving position is easily tailored to fit. Trunk space is reasonable for a coupe, holding a weekend's worth of luggage for a couple, but less than the S70 sedan would offer.
Value for the Money
Looks can be deceiving on the used-car market, as shoppers learn quickly. Volvo's 2-door companions are suave in shape, perform admirably, and offer excellent amenities, but Mercedes-Benz just might have the edge in quality and refinement for this league. Overall, all recent Volvo models have been solid and well-built. The coupe is no different. Volvo has aimed the C70 at young-thinking empty-nesters ready for something with more style and sizzle than a minivan, sport-utility vehicle--or a Volvo sedan. Our experience suggests that the C70 is a worthy entry into that market and should be considered. Still, we'd pick the more refined Mercedes-Benz CLK320 coupe or convertible. Next to that example of excellence, Volvo's otherwise able C70 comes across almost as crude.
Looks can be deceiving on the used-car market, as shoppers learn quickly. Volvo's 2-door companions are suave in shape, perform admirably, and offer excellent amenities, but Mercedes-Benz just might have the edge in quality and refinement for this league. Overall, all recent Volvo models have been solid and well-built. The coupe is no different. Volvo has aimed the C70 at young-thinking empty-nesters ready for something with more style and sizzle than a minivan, sport-utility vehicle--or a Volvo sedan. Our experience suggests that the C70 is a worthy entry into that market and should be considered. Still, we'd pick the more refined Mercedes-Benz CLK320 coupe or convertible. Next to that example of excellence, Volvo's otherwise able C70 comes across almost as crude.
Expert Ratings Summary
| Category | Volvo C70 coupe Rating | |
|---|---|---|
| Performance | 7 | |
| Fuel Economy | 5 | |
| Ride Quality | 4 | |
| Steering/Handling/Braking | 6 | |
| Quietness | 5 | |
| Controls/Materials | 6 | |
| Interior Room | 6 | |
| Room/Comfort (rear) | 3 | |
| Cargo Capacity | 3 | |
| Value within Class | 2 | |
| Total Score: | 47 |
Each vehicle report contains one rating chart for representative model. Consumer
Guide® rates in ten key areas: Performance, Fuel Economy, Ride Comfort, Steering
and Handling, Interior Noise, Controls and Materials, Driver Room, Passenger Room,
Cargo Capacity, and Insurance Costs. These ratings compare the particular vehicle
rated to ALL other vehicles, not a vehicle's standing in a particular class. In the
ratings table, "1" is the lowest rating and "10" is the highest rating.
Our reliability study for this generation Volvo C70 includes details on average repair costs, manufacturer recalls, and everything you need to know to gauge the long-term reliability of this generation Volvo C70 .
Trouble Spots
Consumer Guide's® Auto Editors have scoured repair bulletins and questioned mechanics to search
for commonly occurring problems for a particular vehicle. In some cases we also give possible manufacturer-suggested
solutions. In many instances these trouble spots are Technical Service Bulletins posted by the manufacturer,
however, we have our own expert looking at additional vehicle problems.
Convertible top:
The trim molding comes loose from the drip rail on convertibles. (1999)
Coolant leak:
Water may enter the passenger compartment between the firewall and engine compartment. Adding sealer between the two may fix the problem. (1998)
Oil leak:
Replacement copper washers might fix oil pump leaks from mounting screws on 2.5-liter engine. (1998)
Paint/body:
The drain holes in the rocker panels may be clogged with body sealer leading to premature rusting. (1998)
Vehicle noise:
A whining noise from the front of the car requires dampers on both half shafts. (1998-99)
Consumer Guide® Estimated Repair Costs
This table lists costs of likely repairs for comparison with other vehicles. The
dollar amount includes the cost of the part(s) and labor (based on $50 per hour) for the
typical repair without extras or add-ons. Like the pricing information, replacement
costs can vary widely depending on region. Expect charges at a new-car dealership
to be slightly higher.
| Item Name | Repair Cost |
| A/C Compressor | $585 |
| Alternator | $410 |
| Automatic Transmission or Transaxle | $920 |
| Brakes | $310 |
| Clutch, Pressure Plate, Bearing | $650 |
| Constant Velocity Joints | $1,150 |
| Exhaust System | $445 |
| Radiator | $475 |
| Shocks and/or Struts | $1,435 |
| Timing Chain or Belt | $415 |
Our price chart for this generation Volvo C70 details a range of prices in
year-by-year listings based on vehicle mileage and condition.
| Prices | Good | Average | Poor |
|
|
|||
| 2004 | |||
| C70 convertible | $14,000-16,000 | $12,700-14,600 | $8,500-9,800 |
| 2003 | |||
| C70 convertible | $11,500-13,000 | $10,400-11,700 | $6,300-7,200 |
| 2002 | |||
| C70 convertible | $9,500-11,000 | $8,600-9,900 | $4,900-5,700 |
| C70 coupe | $7,800-9,000 | $7,000-8,100 | $4,000-4,600 |
| 2001 | |||
| C70 convertible | $8,000-9,300 | $7,200-8,400 | $4,100-4,700 |
| C70 coupe | $6,200-7,200 | $5,400-6,300 | $2,700-3,100 |
| 2000 | |||
| C70 convertible | $7,300-8,300 | $6,600-7,500 | $3,600-4,100 |
| C70 coupe | $5,300-6,500 | $4,600-5,600 | $2,200-2,700 |
| 1999 | |||
| C70 convertible | $6,800-7,600 | $6,100-6,800 | $3,200-3,600 |
| C70 coupe | $4,800-6,000 | $4,000-5,000 | $1,800-2,300 |
| 1998 | |||
| C70 convertible | $6,300-7,000 | $5,500-6,200 | $2,800-3,100 |
| C70 coupe | $4,500-5,300 | $3,700-4,400 | $1,600-1,900 |
|
|
|||
This chart details a range of prices in year-by-year listings for vehicles in three condition levels:
Good: a clean low-mileage, solid-running vehicle that needs little or no repair.
Average: a car with normal miles on the odometer, perhaps a few scrapes or dings;
engine might need a minor repair or two, but runs acceptably well.
Poor: might have potentially dangerous problems with the engine and/or body, or
abnormally high mileage; definitely in need of mechanical attention. Valuations
reflect wholesale prices paid by dealers at auction, and retail prices on used-car
lots. Each range covers all trim levels and engine types for a vehicle with a typical
amount of equipment--usually an automatic transmission, air conditioning, stereo,
etc. Fully loaded vehicles may cost more. Average mileage is 12,000 miles per year. Keep
in mind that these are guidelines only. Actual selling prices vary- especially from
region to region.
Specs for this generation Volvo C70 include everything from fuel mileage to seating capacity to options availability.
Vehicle Dimensions
| Specification | 2-door convertible | 2-door coupe |
| Wheelbase, in. | 104.9 | 104.9 |
| Overall Length, in. | 185.6 | 185.7 |
| Overall Width, in. | 71.5 | 71.5 |
| Overall Height, in. | 56.0 | 55.7 |
| Curb Weight, lbs. | 3630 | 3365 |
| Cargo Volume, cu. ft. | 8.0 | 13.1 |
| Standard Payload, lbs. | -- | -- |
| Fuel Capacity, gals. | 18.5 | 18.5 |
| Seating Capacity | 4 | 4 |
| Front Head Room, in. | 37.4 | 37.4 |
| Max. Front Leg Room, in. | 41.3 | 41.3 |
| Rear Head Room, in. | 36.6 | 36.6 |
| Max. Rear Leg Room, in. | 34.6 | 34.6 |
|
Specifications Key: NA = not available; "--" = measurement does not exist. |
||
Powertrain Options and Availability
Initial models were powered by a turbocharged, dual-overhead-cam 2.3-liter inline 5-cylinder engine, making 236 horsepower. Another engine soon joined the fray, producing 190 horsepower and installed in the base coupe and the convertible. Two transmissions have been offered: a 5-speed manual or 4-speed automatic. Both engines gained 7 horsepower for '03.
| Engines | cu. in |
Horse- power | Torque | Transmission: |
Consumer Guide Observed |
| Turbocharged ohc I5 | 2.4 / 149 | 190-197 | 199 | 4-speed automatic: 19/26 | 4-speed automatic: 20 |
| Turbocharged dohc I5 | 2.3 / 141 | 236-242 | 243-244 | 5-speed manual: 19/26 4-speed automatic: 18/25 |
5-speed manual: 20 4-speed automatic: 19.9 |
|
Specifications Key: NA = not available; "--" = measurement does not exist. |
|||||
Built In: Sweden
Drive Wheels: transverse front-engine/front-wheel drive
Detailed safety information for this generation Volvo C70 include detailed crash test scores from the NHTSA.
NHTSA Crash-Test Results
Vehicle crash test information not available at this time.The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) tests a vehicle's worthiness in front- and side-impact collisions and rates its resistance to rollovers. Front-impact crash-test numbers indicate the chance of serious injury: 5 = 10% or less; 4 = 10-20%; 3 = 20-35%; 2 = 35-45%; 1 = More than 45%. Sideimpact crash-test numbers indicate: 5 = 5% or less; 4 = 6-10%; 3 = 11-20%; 2 = 21-25%; 1 = More than 26%. Rollover resistance numbers indicate the chance for rollover when the vehicle leaves the roadway: 5 = Less than 10%; 4 = 10-20%; 3 = 20-30%; 2 = 30-40%; 1 = More than 40%.
Learn about official auto recalls, reliability issues, and vehicle problems for the 1998-2004 Volvo C70 directly from the NHTSA and manufacturers.
NHTSA Recall History
1998:
Front-passenger airbag may be overly sensitive to certain electrostatic discharges; could possibly cause inadvertent deployment.
1998:
Operation of headlight switch over extended period of time can result in inconsistent operation.
1998-00 C70:
Over extended time period, headlight switch may cease to operate.
1999-02 C70 convertible:
A dirty throttle housing and/or inefficient software calibration may force the vehicle into limp home mode. Dealers will install the current software upgrade onto the involved vehicles.
2001 V70:
Bolted joint attaching the bracket for the child restraint, may have been incorrectly tightened. The seat occupant may not be properly restrained, increasing the risk of injury.
2001 V70:
Rear-outboard seatbelt-anchorage bolts may have been incorrectly tightened. In the event of a crash, the seat occupant may not be properly restrained.
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