Volvo S70 (1996 - 1999) 2.4 SE (170bhp) 4d Auto (1999/V) Owner Review

What does this car say about you?

It's a little old fashioned but cuts a fine dash. For someone who appreciates quality with a capital Q.

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

I lent it to my mum and she wouldn't give it back. My fiancee has plans to keep it for herself too. Generally people think 'Crikey, could you have found anything bigger?' - but change their tune once inside!

Would you buy this car again and why?

The only car of ten odd I've owned I can say this about truthfully. Volvo independent specialist near me is superb. This car has been very economical to run. Every time I sink into the black heated leather seats and it whispers quietly down the motorway at a rapid pace I think to myself 'how will I ever replace this?' It still smells like a new car inside too - of leather.

What are you likely to buy next?

I'm struggling to think of a car that would fit the bill. An S80 would 'replace' it. I don't think it would do anything better. The one car I'd like that would 'better' it is the Mercedes CL600. That is the measure of the S70 SE - your next car has to be a 5 metre long 6-litre V12 in order to better it!

Type of dealer you bought from?

Independent

Did you buy this car new?

No

What price did you pay?

£2,900

When did you buy the car?

January 2007

Did you get a good deal and why?

Yes - nearly £30k new, 7 years old and I get a 90% discount?! One owner from new with full main dealer history. Bumpers used and a parking dent in the passenger door were the extent of the faults.

Is there any special reason why you bought this car?

Wanted a bit of luxury

What was the dealer like?

Good.

What's it like to drive?

Very relaxing. Ride is comfortable over poor paving. 170hp engine is the business, wouldn't like to get the 140hp in auto. Can make rapid progress. On average get 30mpg which I consider good.

What's it like to park?

Although a reasonably large car, it shrinks when in the driving seat and is easy to maneuver. Suspension shows its quality when mounting a pavement to park on narrow streets - it's very good. Steering is well weighted.

Have you had any problems with the car?

Nothing really. If you're clumsy like me be careful of the key fobs, they're fragile when dropped.

What's most practical about your car?

Stunning build quality and reliability. And I mean stunning. Paint seems much better and thicker than other cars I've owned. Shrugs off winter. It has everything automated I want, but leaves out the potentially problematic gimmicky stuff like motorised seat controls - who needs em.

Favourite gadget, option or accessory?

The car tries hard to lessen the drivers workload with an intuitive cruise control. Analogue twin-zone climate control works well. Windscreen demists quickly. Heated seats a boon. Leather is great.