Volvo S80 (1998 - 2005) 2.4 D5 SE 4d Auto (2003/03) Owner Review

What does this car say about you?

Don't care what others think. Prefers value for money over a badge.

What do your friends / family / neighbours think of the car?

Very comfortable to be a passenger in. Loads of space in the back.

Would you buy this car again and why?

Yes I would, despite the problems I had. It is a huge amount of car for the money and lovely to drive.

What are you likely to buy next?

Replaced it with a Jaguar S-Type 2.7d Sport which is smaller inside but quicker. Would definitely buy a Volvo again in the future.

Type of dealer you bought from?

Didn't buy from a dealer

Did you buy this car new?

No

What price did you pay?

£4,000

When did you buy the car?

July 2011

Did you get a good deal and why?

Was a good deal at the time, keenly priced and good condition.

Is there any special reason why you bought this car?

Wanted a big lazy auto.

What was the dealer like?

What's it like to drive?

Smooth. It cruises effortlessly on the open road and isn't a barge around town either. 163BHP adequate for daily use but doesn't inspire confidence for overtaking. A great car to chill out and cruise in. Drivers seat got a bit uncomfortable with age but new foam from Volvo was reasonably priced and a simple job for competent DIYer.

What's it like to park?

It's big and doesn't have sensors as standard so a bit of guesswork is required. There is always a lot more room than you think behind it. I fitted cheap after market sensors which made it easier.

Have you had any problems with the car?

Lots but it was already 8 years old when I bought it. Massive oil leak within weeks of buying it turned out to be a core plug on the engine which has since been re-designed. £1 part and over £300 of labour to get to it. Auto gearbox went at 109k, radiator, intercooler, then in April 2014 with only 156k on the clock, the crank moved sideways and took a chunk out of the block. Sold it to a breaker for £500. Also had knocks and bangs from the front end which were never resolved and the boot lid release developed a mind of it's own.

What's most practical about your car?

Masses of space both in the cabin and in the boot. Factory fit towbar looks very neat when not in use too. Memory driver's seat and mirrors for easy driver swapping.

Favourite gadget, option or accessory?

Besides the plethora of toys, it would have to be the inertia-reel strap in the boot which you use to strap small items such as a bag of shopping into place. Sorely missed in my replacement car. Oh and the Dolby Pro-Logic sound system is immense.