2003 Volvo C70: Road Test
Archived Review
2003 Volvo C70 ▼
Select a Trim ▼
- MSRP: $44,125 -$46,125
- Invoice: $41,477 -$43,357
Features & Specifications
Compare Vehicle
Related to Volvo 70 series
Previous Year's Reviews
View Another Vehicle
Our road test for the 2003 Volvo C70 includes a full evaluation of the 2003 Volvo C70 from the inside out. We evaluate not only engine and handling performance for the 2003 Volvo C70, but also interior cabin and cargo space. Let our comprehensive road test ratings for the 2003 Volvo C70 help you decide if a 2003 Volvo C70 is right for you.
Advertisement
ACCELERATION
| 2.4, auto. | 2.3, man., w/17-inch wheels | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 6 | 7 | 7.7 |
Enough for most any need, though both engines suffer frustrating turbo-throttle lag, especially when passing. The 2.3 engine is stronger than the 2.4, but the 2.4 has more progressive power delivery.
FUEL ECONOMY
| 2.4, auto. | 2.3, man., w/17-inch wheels | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 5 | 5 | 4.8 |
Test C70s averaged about 20 mpg regardless of engine or transmission. Premium fuel is required.
RIDE QUALITY
| 2.4, auto. | 2.3, man., w/17-inch wheels | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 4 | 3 | 4.1 |
Jarring over all but smooth surfaces. Mediocre even with standard 16s. Patchy pavement induces undue body drumming for a near-luxury car.
STEERING/HANDLING/BRAKING
| 2.4, auto. | 2.3, man., w/17-inch wheels | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 6 | 6 | 8.6 |
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, auto. | 2.3, man., w/17-inch wheels | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 4 | 4 | 4 |
Engines vocal and crude-sounding at full throttle. Top-up wind rush is low, but tires trigger intrusive coarse-pavement tire thrum.
CONTROLS
| 2.4, auto. | 2.3, man., w/17-inch wheels | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 5 | 5 | 6 |
Mostly user-friendly, 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, auto. | 2.3, man., w/17-inch wheels | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 6 | 6 | 5.4 |
Good space even for large adults. Firm, chairlike seats are long-distance comfortable. Visibility is subpar with the top up. Alert basic driving position is easily tailored.
ROOM/COMFORT (REAR)
| 2.4, auto. | 2.3, man., w/17-inch wheels | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 2 | 2 | .7 |
Only preteens fit. Front seats power forward for entry/exit, but are snail-slow and still leave pinched passageways.
CARGO ROOM
| 2.4, auto. | 2.3, man., w/17-inch wheels | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 2 | 2 | 2.2 |
Enough for a weekend's worth of soft luggage for two.
VALUE WITHIN CLASS
| 2.4, auto. | 2.3, man., w/17-inch wheels | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | 1 | 4.6 |
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. Road manners are good, but turbo-throttle lag, a harsh ride, and tiny back seats aggravate. Similarly priced Audi A4 and BMW 3-Series rivals are better cars.
Total Score
| 2.4, auto. | 2.3, man., w/17-inch wheels | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 41 | 41 | 48.1 |
Total Score: 41
Scores for all Premium Sporty/performance Cars
Car Buying Resources
Search
Local Listings
Vehicle
History Report
FREE CARFAX Record Check
Looking at a used car, check for costly hidden problems before
you buy.
