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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  Love this car - 2004 Volvo C70
  By augthedog - January 2 - 10:00 am

  This is a sweet driving machine. Handles curves with ease and acceleration is awsom for this engine. Seats are comfortable for long trips and what an awsome stereo. Top takes a little long to retract but works flawless. First time in a long time I felt good making a new car purchase.

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  Troubled C70 - 2008 Volvo C70
  By Randy - December 24 - 10:40 am

  I chose the C70 over an Audi due to the hardtop. I have had it in the shop seven times and 90 days since May 08 for roof issues. Fortunately none of them have been major, but a major inconvenience on my time. My biggest problem has been getting anyone from Volvo corporate to give me a call to discuss some kind of resolution.

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  tylerc70 - 2001 Volvo C70
  By Gracie - December 19 - 5:36 pm

  I didnt start off as a volvo fan, but how can you resist a sexy convertible and safety in one package? My greatest pet peeve is the flimsy cup holder.

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  far from perfect,but love it - 2002 Volvo C70
  By sorento2006 - December 19 - 10:01 am

  i was looking for a used convertible,and came across this 2002 c70 with 108000 miles.found out all mechanicals were in perfect condition.feel very lucky,and get lots of compliments

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  LOVE IT - 2004 Volvo C70
  By cltgrits - December 17 - 10:00 am

  I JUST GOT IT AND I AM IN LOVE !!! GREAT CAR!!

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  Better than the CLK430 - 2004 Volvo C70
  By Juliepham - December 17 - 10:00 am

  My husband has been searching for a convertible for our family for two years. When he bought the C70, I didnt think that I would like this vehicle at first, when my husband bought it. It actually is better then my friends MB CLK430 that he paid 68K. The car is heavier then the CLK also.

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  Never Again - 2008 Volvo C70
  By bruceko1 - December 11 - 9:37 am

  I purchased this car used with about 22k miles on it. It now has 36k miles. Its been in the shop twice to fix a front wheel/hub issue that impacted braking function and a third time to replace A/C compressor. A/C still doesnt work correctly and now check engine light is on. Ive owned 50 plus vehicles before this one. Ive never had a vehicle that required so much time in the shop. So 4 times in the shop in 14,000 miles. Cant wait for the next 14. Ill be dumping this pc of junk before the warranty expires.

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  Volvo C70 first two thousand miles - 2007 Volvo C70
  By tim2it - November 23 - 6:40 pm

  Got one of those 6000 imported C70 2007 babies, and Im really enjoying it. It is Magic Blue Pearl with white interior. Best, most intuitive interior I have ever owned. I think it is called ergonomics. I also get people stopping me all the time to admire the car. Auto trans is a lagger at the light, but acceptable for people who dont care to shift. There is a pull to the right during accelerated lane changes at higher speeds, but again, it is OK if you know it is part of the turbo right twist phenom. I took it to Yosemite and over 9,000 feet mountain passes and the car was fantastic. Overall, it is a great ride, and a nice, safe drive. Lets hope I can get parts as it ages.

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  Love this ride! - 2002 Volvo C70
  By ckckC70 - October 21 - 2:00 am

  Its just a joy to drive. Incredibly comfortable seats, great sound system, good controls. There is an irritating lag in acceleration from a stop, which Im told is typical of turbo engines.

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  Love this car - 2004 Volvo C70
  By Eye Run - September 18 - 9:03 am

  I traded in a Chevy Trailblazer and this Volvo is absolutely a dream to drive. The only problem I have with it is the inability of the CD player to go from 1 disc to another without having to eject and press the next track. I also miss the controls on the steering wheel. Ive had dozens of compliments and the car is only 3 months old! Love this car!!