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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  Update on my Moondust C70 - 2003 Volvo C70
  By 1972ChevelleMalibu - September 10 - 9:23 pm

  15,500 miles and cant wait for this summer. Only word of caution, get rid of the stock Pirelli tires ASAP. First off, they are only summer and second, the sidewalls are way too weak. You hit a pothole or bump and they are ruined. I switch over to Dunlop Wintersport M3. They also come run- flat. Take much more abuse (regulars), but low - profile in general is a bad idea. Car was totally fine in snow with the Dunlops (they are winter tires). Moondust color is perfect for hiding dirt, finish is fine, interior is perfect. No problems with anything, just get in and turn the key. Very unique. Drive all day and maybe see one other on the road. Cant think of anything else I would rather have.

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  We gave it back - 2004 Volvo C70
  By duner - September 6 - 2:00 am

  purchased Nov, 03. 500 miles, power steering failed. 1800 miles, new Rack installed in Car. transmission began clunking between 10 and 20 mph . Volvo N. America looked at the car. Agreed to everything during the proof drive then denied it after they got off the phone with Volvo legal, per a Friend at the dealer. C70 platform is CRAP. Tranny by Mitsubishi per Volvo, tolerance issues at transaxles and hubs, known to Volvo. END: Volvo Corporate told me "too Bad" and "well see you in court" if I didnt like it. its sounds weird? it Was! dont buy any C70 or Volvo , car flagged 2 weeks prior with a steering problem Volvo sold it anyway

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  I like it - 2000 Volvo C70
  By wansomathis - September 5 - 10:00 am

  Ive had a long run of bad experiences with used cars, but this one has been a dream so far. Everything works smoothly and reliably, and its always a pleasure to drive. Excellent handling and styling. The only minus is less than great reverse vision due to the high trunk line. Also, why o why didnt they make tha back seats fold down like everyone else?!

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  Cant wait for next season - 2003 Volvo C70
  By 1972ChevelleMalibu - July 31 - 2:00 am

  I have to put in my opinion on this car because they are so hard to find, etc. I have had my Moondust C70 with the high powered turbo for 6 months and 6,000 miles. So far, it has been a fantastic car. It is powerful (252 HP), smooth riding and the seats are extremely comfortable. I originally struck out to find a used one, but it was so difficult, I bought a leftover 2003 new. People come up to me at stoplights to ask what it is and say how much they like it (sometimes one person a day) when the top is down! If you have the $, it is either this, or I would check out the new Saab (was not out when I got mine).

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  It is fun to drive again - 2009 Volvo C70
  By cthimes - July 30 - 12:33 am

  I just purchased this vehicle last week and love everything about it. I am a big man and fit in the vehicle just fine. It is a great car to show off and certainly gets everyones attention when it changes. My kids have named the car after Jazz in the Transformer movie because it really is a noticeable change. I like the feeling of security that the car brings and I am very pleased with the performance. The car has plenty of power actually more horsepower than the V6 Mustang convertible that I was also considering. It really is two cars built into one.

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  Love on four wheels - 2002 Volvo C70
  By Captain America - July 15 - 10:00 am

  My experience with my baby is one of joy and jubilation! Driving her is so mcuh fun and she is so unique (You dont see that many black coupes) I love her and am going to keep her for quite some time...

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  this is what I call car!!!! - 2002 Volvo C70
  By David Nagler - June 6 - 10:00 am

  This car is so fun to drive you will never want stop.The sound system is incredible, the engine is incredible, and the handling is incredible.The car is incredible!!!!!

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  Excellent Quality and Value - 2000 Volvo C70
  By bruneje - May 26 - 9:13 am

  I have had this car now for 4 summers, I still have not found a car better styled and as much of a looker car. It does get looks and compliments. So far the only real problem I have had is with the driver window operator. The car is incredibly reliable and I would highly recommend

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  Most mileage is to the dealer - 2007 Volvo C70
  By momsfirst - April 23 - 2:26 pm

  Love to drive my C70, unfortunately, the majority of it seems to be the 50 miles one way to the dealer for the Check Engine light repair. Six times in 7 weeks, less than 5,000 miles on the car. Have a 16 hour road trip in two weeks, wish I had a right arm rest. The center console is positioned for a height of about 6, not my 56"

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  Dream Car was a LEMON! - 2001 Volvo C70
  By pmm - April 16 - 2:43 pm

  This was my dream car (not). I had it 19 mo. thats all I could take. In the shop 15xs all minor but come on. I had all the issues prev. stated plus a cracked dash that I was told is common in a Volvo (should have been told before I bought) would cost $2300 to fix. The constant rattle noise was so unnerving that I could not relax & drive. Also my SRS light came on 4x in the shop for each till they replaced the air bag.It was a huge sacrifice to buy this so called dream car that leaked from the window seals so bad that my carpet had to be pulled out and the pad replaced. two weeks before I got rid of it I had an oil leak and thermostat go out. I babied this car there is no excuse for such a rip-off