Volvo S40 (1996 - 2004) 1.9 T4 4d (1999/V) Owner Review

What does this car say about you?

It is less about image, just fun to drive.

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

The family like the car, most tend to be astounded by its performance.

Would you buy this car again and why?

well I would never buy the same car twice

What are you likely to buy next?

I have my eye on an Alfa 159... I will be saving a long time though.

Type of dealer you bought from?

Independent

Did you buy this car new?

No

What price did you pay?

£2,300

When did you buy the car?

February 2007

Did you get a good deal and why?

I paid about the right money for the car according to the Parkers guide. I think you get a lot of car for your money when buying a t4.

Is there any special reason why you bought this car?

I have driven a t4 before and loved it. It is fun to drive yet does not scream boy racer at you, it is very practical as a family car with lots of safety features.

What was the dealer like?

What's it like to drive?

It is great fun to drive. From experience it is slightly less twitchy than the Estate version (v40). Even though its front wheel drive I do not experience under-steer. The Performance is fantastic 200bhp 0-60 in 7.1 seconds (on a V plate for less than 2500 pounds). It feels very solid and you get pulled back into your seats when accelerating, there always seems to be more power than you need. On the downside occasionally you will suffer from torque steer and the steering although precise feels a little light for my preference. I always look forward to driving it.

What's it like to park?

The spoiler makes it tricky to see out the back, but I still find it easy.

Have you had any problems with the car?

Very recently the wheel baring went in the passenger rear. This cost me about a hundred pounds to fix... Warning dont use the Volvo parts as they charge you for the whole hub!!. Unipart parts however are about a third of the price and under warranty.

What's most practical about your car?

You can fit 5 people in it with comfort. The three point belt on the middle back seat is very good. The boot is not huge but certainly useful.

Favourite gadget, option or accessory?

Its a standard model, the things that stand out are: Traction control, Power Steering, Air Con, Foot Pedal Light, Remote Locking, CD and Tape player, Electric mirrors/front windows and ariel, Airbags (including sides) and whiplash protection.