2002 Volvo C70: Road Test
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2002 Volvo C70 ▼
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- MSRP: $37,525 -$46,125
- Invoice: $35,273 -$43,257
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Our road test for the 2002 Volvo C70 includes a full evaluation of the 2002 Volvo C70 from the inside out. We evaluate not only engine and handling performance for the 2002 Volvo C70, but also interior cabin and cargo space. Let our comprehensive road test ratings for the 2002 Volvo C70 help you decide if a 2002 Volvo C70 is right for you.
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ACCELERATION
| 2.4 conv | 2.3 cpe, man. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 6 | 7 | 7.8 |
Enough for most any need, though both engines suffer frustrating turbo throttle lag, especially when passing. The 2.3 engine is faster than the 2.4, but the 2.4 has the more-progressive power delivery.
FUEL ECONOMY
| 2.4 conv | 2.3 cpe, man. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 5 | 5 | 4.6 |
Test C70s averaged about 20 mpg regardless of engine or transmission. Premium fuel is required.
RIDE QUALITY
| 2.4 conv | 2.3 cpe, man. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 3 | 3 | 4 |
Stiff with the 16-inch tires, jarring over all but smooth surfaces with the low-profile 17s. Patchy pavement and some freeways also induce undue body drumming for a near-luxury car, especially in convertibles.
STEERING/HANDLING/BRAKING
| 2.4 conv | 2.3 cpe, man. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 6 | 6 | 8.3 |
Strong, sure braking. Firm, accurate steering. Balanced through sweeping curves, but not that nimble in tight, fast changes of direction. Also, mild front-drive torque steer--unwanted pulling to the side in rapid acceleration.
QUIETNESS
| 2.4 conv | 2.3 cpe, man. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 4 | 4 | 3.6 |
Engines vocal and crude-sounding at full throttle. Wind rush is low, but optional 17-inch performance tires trigger intrusive coarse-pavement tire thrum.
CONTROLS
| 2.4 conv | 2.3 cpe, man. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 5 | 6 | 5.3 |
Mostly user-friendly for placement and function, but the steering wheel can obscure some switches. Even with standard leather upholstery, there's too much low-grade plastic for cabin materials to feel special.
ROOM/COMFORT/DRIVER SEATING (FRONT)
| 2.4 conv | 2.3 cpe, man. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 6 | 6 | 5.1 |
Good space even for large adults. Firm, chairlike seats are long-distance comfortable. Visibility is fine in the coupe, subpar top-up in convertibles. Alert basic driving position is easily tailored.
ROOM/COMFORT (REAR)
| 2.4 conv | 2.3 cpe, man. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 2 | 3 | .6 |
Only preteens fit, and they may not be comfortable. Convertible's seat is narrower and even less hospitable than the coupe's. Front seats power forward for entry/exit, but are snail-slow and still leave pinched passageways.
CARGO ROOM
| 2.4 conv | 2.3 cpe, man. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 2 | 3 | 2.1 |
Enough in either body style for a weekend's worth of soft luggage for two.
VALUE WITHIN CLASS
| 2.4 conv | 2.3 cpe, man. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | 1 | 4.2 |
C70s are high style--for Volvo--but at high prices, and their basic 1993-vintage design shows its age in mediocre chassis rigidity for the class, convertibles especially. Road manners are good, but turbo-throttle lag, a harsh ride with the low-profile 17-inch tires, and tiny back seats aggravate. Similarly priced BMW 3-Series rivals are better cars, with Acura's CL the high-value coupe alternative.
Total Score
| 2.4 conv | 2.3 cpe, man. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 40 | 44 | 45.6 |
Total Score: 42
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