Used Volvo C70 Convertible 1997 - 2006 review

What's the used Volvo C70 like?

The Volvo C70 Cabriolet retains the same chiselled looks as the C70 coupe, but lets buyers enjoy the best of the weather at the flick of a switch, with a roof that folds away in 30 seconds.

To compensate for the lack of a fixed roof and keep the body stiff, the cabriolet needed weighty reinforcing, and that harmed the performance.

Overview

The Volvo C70 Convertible is a desirable, high-quality reliable car, but it's let down by poor handling

Pros

• Slick styling
• Comfortable

Cons

• Not much room in the back
• Small boot
• Not as good to drive as a BMW 3 Series

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Volvo C70

2.0T GT 2dr

£899

Volvo C70

2.5 T5 SE 2dr

£1,600

Volvo C70

2.0T 2dr

£2,470

Volvo C70

2.0D SE Lux 2dr

£2,495

Volvo C70

2.4 D5 SE Lux Geartronic 2dr

£2,499

Volvo C70

2.0 D3 SE Lux Geartronic Euro 5 2dr

£2,499

Volvo C70

2.4 D5 Sport 2dr

RRP £27,710

£2,695

Volvo C70

2.4i SE 2dr

£3,490

Volvo C70

2.0 D3 SE Lux Geartronic Euro 5 2dr

£3,750

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To make matters worse, bumpy roads soon expose the limitations of the C70's ride and the whole car can shudder over larger bumps. Its handling is clumsy, too, and the car feels like it's fighting back when driven hard on twisty roads.

That said, if you stick to smooth roads and sedate speeds, the C70 can cover ground effortlessly and smoothly. You're well protected from outside noise, although there's a fair amount of wind noise with the fabric roof in place. With it down, wind buffeting is surprisingly light.

Also impressive is the generous space for occupants up front, but the storage space for the hood robs the rear passengers of room compared with the coupe. The boot is also noticeably smaller.

Our recommendations

Which used Volvo C70 should I buy?

First, we'll start with two engines to avoid. The entry-level 2.0 might be turbocharged, but its 163bhp isn't enough in the C70's heavy body (especially with the automatic gearbox), while the 240bhp 2.3 T5 exposes the limitations of the chassis, and the front wheels often struggle to find enough grip.

The best bet is the 193bhp (later 200bhp) 2.4T, and preferably with the four-speed automatic gearbox option, which is slightly easier to live with than the manual gearbox, which doesn't like being rushed.

Whichever you go for, you won't be short of kit. The Cabriolet comes with a comprehensive specification, including smart alloy wheels, climate and cruise control and full leather trim. A GT option was also available, which added an upgraded stereo, heated front seats, traction and stability control and a sports steering wheel.

Because of the age of the C70, a private sale is your best bet for a bargain.

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