2001 Volvo C70: Overview

Vehicle Highlights

Based on Volvo's previous midsize platform, the C70s offer a 2-dr coupe and a convertible with a power top and heated glass rear window. Both have a turbo inline 5-cyl engine. Convertibles get 190-hp or 236-hp versions, coupes get the 236 only. The 236-hp engine comes with manual transmission or optional 5-speed automatic; automatic is standard with the 190 hp. Midseason, the coupe regained standard leather upholstery and sunroof, which were among its options at the start of the 2001 model year; its base price increased $2450 in the process. All C70s include antilock 4-wheel disc brakes, front side airbags, and front seats designed to minimize whiplash injury.

COMPETITION

This hotly contested segment has a clear benchmark; it is the Acura TL (and its 2-door cousin Acura CL). The TL succeeds in blending comfort, style, luxury, and sport into an efficient package at an affordable price. If you are leaning more toward the luxury scale, the Lexus ES 300 might be a more practical purchase.

We also recommend the sporty and Euro-flavored Audi A6, the comfortable Buick Park Avenue, the affordable and fast Infiniti I30.