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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  Great Convertible - 2000 Volvo C70
  By Jay Arthur Thompson - November 10 - 10:00 am

  I love the car. The car has has no problems and only seen scheduled maintenance. For a convertable, it is spacious and sporty.

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  Best Convertible - 2003 Volvo C70
  By mattpom - October 22 - 2:00 am

  I just love it

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  2002 Volvo C70 - 2002 Volvo C70
  By F T Riekhof - October 20 - 1:16 pm

  The car has numerous rattles and squeaks. It needed a complete replacement of the radiator and transmission cooler at 42,000 miles. The turning radius is way to wide and one would hardly know it has power steering. Gear indicator on dash is totally inadequate and stupid. The drivers seat has worn unacceptably given the milage. It has poor visibility when backing up. On the bright side: it handles wonderfully on the open road, and it is fun to drive with the top down in town. Overall it is a poor value, and I likely will never buy another Volvo as a result of owning this car.

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  Awesome Ride!! - 2002 Volvo C70
  By RDog - October 17 - 2:00 am

  I could not be happier with this car. I was deciding between a BMW 3 series coupe and the C70. I was drawn to the C70 primarily because of its looks. Although the BMW is more of a performance car, they are far too common, too commercialized. The C70 coupe is a relatively rare siting. It is definitely a head turner. I get compliments and questions about it all the time. Drives, handles well. Plus, I feel safe. 6 air bags!

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  Unique but poor design! - 2000 Volvo C70
  By dezitrondeluxe - October 15 - 2:01 pm

  When I bought this car it was already 5 years old and over 90,000 miles and now it is up to 130,000. I have taken such good care of this car yet I always have to take it to the shop for major problems. It has had electrical problems from day one, the throttle is going out and so is the transmission. There was a recall on the electronic throttle in 06 I was never aware of. From what I have read online this car was just a bad design because everyone else I know with other Volvo models have not had nearly as many problems as I have with the c70. I admit I love its aesthetics because it is so sleek and rare but I spent over eight grand fixing it. Not worth it!

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  You cant believe how great this car is! - 2008 Volvo C70
  By Michelle - October 9 - 8:10 am

  This was the first vehicle I test drove when I started car shopping - after no less than 10 vehicles later I returned to buy this awesome car! A practical indulgence - a hardtop sedan when the weather is bad and a convertible when the sun is out. Mine is all but totally loaded with the exception of a navigation system & ultra-prem leather which seems nearly impossible to find - I couldnt be more thrilled. With 2 hours in daily commute time, the ride is luxurious and fun to the point I dont want to leave the vehicle. All I can say is that if you see one on a Volvo lot snap it up ASAP - you wont regret it! Safety, style and fun all rolled up into one great vehicle.

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  Incredible car. - 2001 Volvo C70
  By SoCal - September 29 - 10:00 am

  I am not a big fan of front wheel drive cars, however the looks and quality of this car attracted me. I have fallen in love with this car! Show me a four passenger convertible that looks this good and built this nice for this price. If it was rear wheel drive it would be perfect.

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  C70 i can belive how bad the quality is. - 2000 Volvo C70
  By Saint - September 29 - 10:00 am

  I loved the first minute i saw this car. So i got it, and its the worst thing it ever happend. I visit the Volvo service every month. 3x for gas cap. 2x driver side window getting stuck on a cold rainy day. Grage door opener stoped working. Seet gets stock. head lights whiper brok off. Other then that i guess its ok. I just cant belive it is built so poorly. And they charge $500.00 just for a tunup. Verry hard to find parts.

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  Mardis C-70 HPT - 2004 Volvo C70
  By Mardi - September 28 - 7:53 am

  C-70HPT offers a fun drive in a comfortable 4-passenger vehicle. I agree with a review I read, that it has a tendency to torque steer when you REALLY rip on it, but you quickly learn to accomodate. The UP side is that when you shower down, it responds admirably. I traded to it from a BMW Roadster and even though my C-70 isnt quite as much fun, its a superior road car. My husband says, it offers a very civilized convertible experience especially with the optional wind screen. Internal noise is minimal with the top up or down allowing you to enjoy the awesome optional stereo system. 17" allow wheels and low profile tires are sleek, but the soft wheels damage easily and the trunk is small.

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  After First 3 weeks - Awesome - 2011 Volvo C70
  By Jimmy the Greek - September 13 - 10:30 pm

  Beautiful exterior, proven hard-top convertible mechanism. Interior quality is very good. A true 4-seater. Plenty of pep with the 5 Cyl Turbo, although sportscar buffs may not be satisfied. Three weeks old and getting 26 mpg on 85% freeway commute. Wife will be primary driver and she loves it!! I found this upscale convertible to be the best bang for my bucks.