Overview & Reviews

In years gone by, Volvos were known as boxy, square lumps -- reliable and safe, perhaps, but never styling trendsetters. The Swedes finally joined the styling parade in the late '90s with the introduction of the slightly more curvaceous Volvo C70. Available as a coupe or convertible, the two-door C70 shared much of its underlying hardware with the S70 sedan of the time. Detail improvements through the years -- including trim level and color changes, and minor engine upgrades with low- and high-output turbo options -- kept the first-generation C70 fresh enough for its relatively low volume of customers.

A fully redesigned Volvo C70 debuted for 2006, and it was a whole new ball game. Rather than offering separate coupe and convertible models, Volvo decided to join the herd again and offer a handsome new retractable hardtop that opens and closes at the touch of a button. Fortunately, the attractive shape of the first C70 has largely carried over to the second. The C70 is no sports car, but it should appeal to those who want style and comfort in a luxury convertible.

Current Volvo C70
The 2012 Volvo C70 is a four-passenger luxury convertible with a retractable hardtop. It comes in a single trim level. Standard highlights include 17-inch alloy wheels, dual-zone automatic climate control, leather upholstery, eight-way power front seats, Bluetooth phone and audio connectivity, and an eight-speaker sound system with a CD player, satellite radio, HD radio, an iPod/USB audio interface and an auxiliary audio jack. A couple of option packages are available that add items such as rear parking sensors, keyless ignition/entry, a navigation system, an upgraded audio system, heated front seats, 18-inch alloy wheels and adaptive bi-xenon headlights.

The Volvo C70 is based on the same platform used for the recently discontinued compact S40 sedan and V50 wagon. For power, the C70 relies on a turbocharged 2.5-liter inline five-cylinder engine developing 227 horsepower and 236 pound-feet of torque. Power is sent to the front wheels through a five-speed automatic with manual shift control. When the C70's steel roof is up, it gives the car coupelike styling, added rigidity and better noise isolation than a soft top. When the roof is powered down, the C70's dual-hinged trunk lid opens in a reverse motion and the roof pieces arc backward and stack inside the trunk. Overall, the process is seamless and takes about 30 seconds to complete.

Though acceleration is certainly not blistering, the turbocharged engine provides enough low-end torque to get the C70 moving briskly from a stop and to allow easy passing and merging at highway speeds. If you're looking for sports car handling you're bound to be disappointed, as the steering feels a bit numb and the suspension allows a good deal of body roll when pushing the car hard on a curvy stretch of asphalt. However, most convertible shoppers will likely find the C70 to be a pleasant experience, as it feels solid and provides a compliant ride over the bumps and ruts. With the top up, the cabin is luxury car quiet, and the breeze is well-controlled with the top down.

Our editors agree that consumers interested in a comfortable four-passenger convertible should take a close look at the Volvo C70 T5. Though it may not be quite as fun to drive as its European and Japanese competitors, a strong case can still be made for the C70 given its attractive design, lower price, long list of safety equipment and comfortable ergonomics.

Used Volvo C70 Models
The present second-generation C70 debuted in 2006. Notable changes since then include a slight power bump in '08 from 218 hp to 227. Prior to '09, Bluetooth was unavailable, and the C70's optional navigation system was not hard-drive-based and lacked some of the current system's features. Volvo also offered a six-speed manual transmission from 2006-'10.

The first-generation C70 appeared in 1998 as part of Volvo's effort to polish its brand image with a bit of style and desirability. Two models, a two-door coupe and a two-door convertible with a traditional soft top, were initially available. This first C70 was comfortable and competent, with attractive and elegant styling, but we found its uninspiring underpinnings made it a rather bland car to drive, particularly in comparison to hotter European coupes or convertibles. For power, Volvo installed either a 236-hp turbocharged inline five-cylinder engine or a less powerful 190-hp version.

Minor equipment changes carried the Volvo C70 through its first few years. The 190-hp engine was originally available on the coupe but then dropped in 2001. The high-output engine wasn't available on the convertible until 2000. In 2003, Volvo discontinued the C70 coupe; convertible production ended after 2004. At the time, we found the C70 to be generally desirable, though its dated underpinnings put it at an increasing disadvantage against fresher competitors as the years went on, especially in terms of handling performance.

User Reviews:

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  A FUTURE CLASSIC - 2009 Volvo C70
  By jack - August 26 - 9:40 pm

  Wonderful 6 speed transmission, fantastic premium sound system, somewhat Rare, not too many on the road. A joy to own and drive...

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  Worth the wait - 2006 Volvo C70
  By whichhardtop - August 8 - 1:56 pm

  I fell into my 2006 C70 when a higher up in the Volvo company turned in his red C70 after putting 700 miles playing around with it for a few months. The question is, after driving this car, why would anyone give it up? The biggest knock on this car is that it is not fun to drive. Try the standard 6-speed manual and watch it put the 218 horseys to work (and save $1250). Also forget about spending $1400 on leather seating and go with the amazingly sleek (and not very hot) synthetic flextech upholstery. I had no regrets about dropping $1550 on the 12-speaker dynaudio system, which sounds phenomenal. My other big splurge was the 18" tires, which firmly place this as a bonafide sportscar.

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  Gotta be different - 2002 Volvo C70
  By Travisy - August 3 - 10:00 am

  One thing that drew me to the C70 is that there arent a lot of them out there. Seems like you see BMWs everywhere but you sure dont see many C70s. I have only had mine about a month now and really enjoy it. I live it in Italy and trust me it will do more than the governed 130mph. I can cruise at 100mph with no problems and very smooth on the highway. It also fun running through the Italian Alps. I sure feel I got my moneys worth.

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  My C 70 - 2008 Volvo C70
  By LLoyd Smith - July 22 - 3:36 am

  I test drove other cars in the same class; Audi convertible, Lexus, Mercedes, etc. None, I say none of them felt as solid, had the same pick up, were as stylish, comfortable or as beautiful. What an great experience to drive this car, AND it isnt bad to have so many people take an extra look as you drive by. Everything is within very easy reach inside, even visibility is great. Although I prefer all wheel drive the C 70s front wheel drive works well. I have about 4,000 miles on it presently and I am getting an average of 20 mpg and I have a heavy foot. I am an "oldster" and it is a pleasure to get that "I love my car" feeling back. Top up or down draws a crowd.

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  Impressed with C70 - 2008 Volvo C70
  By Mike S - July 5 - 11:20 am

  I could not be more satisfied with my new 2008 C70 convertible. As an owner of a 2000 C70, bought new and driven over 100k miles, I initially though I would select something different. I shopped the competition for convertibles and test drove many below and above the C70s price point. I concluded the C70 was clearly the best value for me based on quality, style, and fuel efficiency. The C70 is not inexpensive, but the more expensive 328i and CLK350 could not justify their higher prices. I have now driven the car for two months. All my expectations have been satisfied. Great qulaity and value.

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  Just purchased this vehicle and I love i - 2009 Volvo C70
  By Cthimes - March 19 - 3:56 pm

  I purchased this vehicle after reviewing several others including the V6 Mustang convertible. I am pleased with the quality and luxury of the design. The nav system is relatively simple and intuitive. The audio system is excellent. The aggressive ability of the acceleration is wonderful.

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  Mikey Likes It - 2007 Volvo C70
  By Jerry Blum - February 12 - 11:53 pm

  This is a conv. not a sports car. Owned with this in mind, it is a nice vehicle--no cowl shake, peppy, comfortable seats, great exhaust note, gets lot of positive comments from bystanders, fuctional interior & controls.

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  C70 - 2001 Volvo C70
  By 2001-C70 - January 27 - 8:33 am

  I bought my C70 used with about 50K miles on it about 5 years ago. I love the way it looks, and love the way it drives even better. It is surprisingly quick for a Volvo. I had to replace the throttle body twice, but Volvo has covered it as a recall item, so it was on their nickel. I have had it in the shop for only one other significant issue. The mass airflow sensor went out while I was on a road trip and rendered the car not driveable, which was not at all convenient, but at least an easy fix. Overall, the reilability has been great. It definitely has been a great car for me.

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  The Man & His Machine - 2001 Volvo C70
  By Jimmy Bowen - January 16 - 10:00 am

  I purchased my "RED" C70 HPT COUPE almost three years ago. It is my second Volvo. I have just over 70,000 miles on the odometer. All I can say is "WOW"! This car is a future classic. The shape, the color, the way the turbo kicks in. It really turns heads.

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  Fun Car - 2004 Volvo C70
  By Ross - January 11 - 10:20 am

  Really enjoy the car. Being 63", I need more head room than most. This car fits me well. Smooth engine, great looks. Only problems: slow acceleration up slight grades sometimes causes the tranny to slip a bit between 2nd and 3rd. No slip at heavier acceleration though. Also, get verbal abuse about the headlight wipers:Could do without them. Actually room under the hood to work on a few things myself. Only other nitpick is the slow power seat feature to enter the back seat.