Volvo S70 (96-)
  • Economy

    Value

    4 out of 5 4.0

    Excellent used buy. Merc or BMW quality for far less cost.

    Costs

    3 out of 5 3.0

    30 mpg on a run, soon dips to 25 on short trips. Strangely not as frugal as identically engined 850. Servicing ok at an independant. Tyres last for ever.

  • On the road

    Driving

    4 out of 5 4.0

    Good handling, far more controlled than my previous 850 estate, steering could do with more feel.

    Performance

    4 out of 5 4.0

    No sports car in 10V guise but plenty of power for rapid family motoring. Loads of grunt at low revs, ideally suited to excellent auto box. Full load of luggage maks no difference to effortless cruising ability.

  • Living with it

    Reliability

    5 out of 5 5.0

    I have to keep reminding myself it is not a brand new car. Bomb proof in the true Volvo tradition

    Image

    4 out of 5 4.0

    With alloys and rear spoiler looks quite sporty, if you`re into that sort of nonsence. Most people think it looks very posh for the price.

    Comfort

    4 out of 5 4.0

    The best seats available at any price. Long journies evaporate. Lots of useful practical touches and v good climate control. A pity the ride is rather on the firm side, but again better than the 850.

  • Security and Service

    Security

    5 out of 5 5.0

    Standard alarm and immobiliser. Never been taken!

    Service

    4 out of 5 4.0

    Polite, 90% efficient, not silly expensive, definatly know you are dealing with a quality brand.

  • Problems and Ownership

    Problems

    Engine

    None

    Other

    Blows headlamp bulbs, like the 850 before it.

    Ownership

    Did you buy the car new?

    Used

    Would you buy the same model again?

    Yes

    Did you buy from the same manufacturer again?

    Yes