Volvo S80 (1998 - 2005) 2.4 SE (170bhp) 4d Auto (2003/53) Owner Review

What does this car say about you?

I'm a bit cheap owning an 11 year old car, boring driving what is perceived as old man's car, and for those that might not know any better, I'm someone fairly well off as the car on it's own merit is executive size with executive trim.

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

I'm not sure, but it's better than many of the neighbours cars, other than the neighbours who drive either Porsche or Bmw. The one's who also own Volvo's around here probably think it's awesome :-).

Would you buy this car again and why?

No, I'd rather have something newer, having said that, if I was buying used with a similar budget I would consider it, the car cost relatively little, is very comfortable for long journeys, has a massive boot, is well built, engine sounds great when stretched. Interior deserves a mention as well, the general quality of all the materials is very good, soft touch plastics everywhere, it's a nice place to sit for hours!

What are you likely to buy next?

Considering Skoda, either the Octavia III or Superb II or III when it's released in 2015.At a pinch maybe a Toyota Avensis.

Type of dealer you bought from?

Independent

Did you buy this car new?

No

What price did you pay?

£3,200

When did you buy the car?

January 2014

Did you get a good deal and why?

Paid over book price, however the car had low mileage, some nice extras and was in good condition.

Is there any special reason why you bought this car?

Size and the engine.

What was the dealer like?

Helpful and easy going.

What's it like to drive?

Nice to drive on the motorway, although this one seems to be susceptible to cross winds requiring some extra adjustment while steering, not sure if it's just the design or something faulty on my one (worn/failing shock absorbers or anti roll bars/droplinks are possible causes apparently). Push it too hard on the twisty roads and it will get out of shape, however there's plenty of grip even at that. Ride comfort varies wildly depending on tyre pressure, inflated for full load it's overly firm, at normal pressure with no load, it's perfectly compliant. Gearbox learns your driving style over time, and is ok, although sometimes it seems like it has a life of it's own. Accelerates at a reasonable rate, but nothing earth shattering. 5 Cylinder engine sounds great.

What's it like to park?

Parallel parking is a pain, partly down to the length of the car, and partly the relatively small mirrors, which don't give the best view. Other than that it's fine, however parking sensors are a must unless you have amazing spatial awareness, or like to park by bouncing off the car behind. You might want to avoid the tighter multi storey car parks too, if you want an easier life!

Have you had any problems with the car?

Power steering is a bit weak these days, but still driveable. Intermittent clunk from the rear, but nothing deal breaking. These points will require work at some stage, but for now the car is soldiering on bravely.

What's most practical about your car?

The huge boot, and the effortless motorway cruising, which is what it was designed for.

Favourite gadget, option or accessory?

Sound system, and the cream Alcantara and leather trim. Oh.. and the heated seats, would be hard to live without them now!