Volvo C70 (1997-04)
Overview: The **Volvo C70** was significant for the company in several ways:
- **Reviving Volvo’s Coupe Lineup** – It was Volvo’s first proper coupe since the **P1800**, marking a return to stylish, performance-oriented models.
- **Collaboration with TWR** – The C70 was developed in partnership with **Tom Walkinshaw Racing (TWR)**, bringing motorsport expertise into Volvo’s production cars.
- **Luxury & Performance Shift** – It helped Volvo move beyond its reputation for safety and practicality, offering a **sleek, high-performance grand tourer**.
- **Convertible Innovation** – The second-generation C70 introduced a **three-piece retractable hardtop**, blending coupe and convertible designs in a single model.
- **Brand Expansion** – It was part of Volvo’s effort to **diversify its lineup**, appealing to buyers who wanted a stylish, premium vehicle with Volvo’s reliability.
Production Total: The **Volvo C70** had a total production run of **161,636 units** across its two generations:
- **First Generation (1996–2005)**: **70,031 units**
- **Coupé**: **24,395 units**
- **Convertible**: **45,636 units**
- **Second Generation (2005–2013)**: **89,074 units**
- All models were **convertibles** with a retractable hardtop.
The C70 was a stylish and luxurious grand tourer that helped Volvo expand its lineup beyond traditional sedans and estates. *****
Price New: In **1997**, the **Volvo C70** was priced at around **£30,000** in the UK, depending on the trim level and optional extras. It was positioned as a **luxury coupe**, offering a blend of **performance, comfort, and Scandinavian design**.
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Rivals: In **1997**, the **Volvo C70** competed with several luxury coupes and convertibles in the UK. Here’s how their prices compared:
- **Volvo C70** – **£30,000**
- **BMW 3 Series Coupe (E36 328i Sport)** – **£28,000**
- **Mercedes-Benz CLK 320** – **£32,000**
- **Audi A4 Cabriolet** – **£29,000**
- **Saab 900 Convertible** – **£27,000**
- **Jaguar XK8 Coupe** – **£45,000**
The **C70** was positioned as a stylish grand tourer, offering a balance of **comfort, performance, and Scandinavian design**.
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Recorded in UK 2025
As of **2025**, there are approximately **7,275 Volvo C70s** still licensed in the UK, with an additional **2,762** registered as **SORN (Statutory Off Road Notification)** - How Many Left?](https://www.howmanyleft.co.uk/family/volvo_volvo_c70?make=volvo). This means that while many are still on the road, a significant number are stored or awaiting restoration.
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COMMON FAULTS
Please Note: Common Faults in Regularly Used Vehicles vs. Low-Mileage Stored Vehicles that have been used consistently over many years, accumulating approximately 10,000–12,000 miles annually, are more prone to common faults due to regular wear and tear. These issues typically arise from the natural aging of components subjected to frequent use, such as engine parts, suspension systems, brakes, and tires. In contrast, vehicles with low mileage that have been stored or preserved are likely to experience different types of issues. These vehicles are often better maintained to ensure their longevity and may avoid some of the typical wear-and-tear problems seen in regularly driven cars. However, they can still face unique challenges such as degradation of rubber seals, corrosion from prolonged inactivity, or fuel system issues caused by old or stagnant fuel.
The **Volvo C70** has a few common faults that owners should be aware of:
- **Roof Mechanism Issues** – The retractable hardtop can develop **squeaks, rattles, or even fail to operate properly**, sometimes requiring expensive repairs.
- **Electrical Problems** – Owners have reported **complete electrical failures**, including issues with **dashboard displays, central locking, and warning lights**.
- **Cabin Trim Wear** – The **centre console and armrest area** can become brittle over time, leading to cracks and wear.
- **Door Lock Malfunctions** – Some models experience **doors coming ajar while driving**, which can be a safety concern.
- **Suspension & Ride Quality** – The **18-inch alloy wheels** on SE Lux models can negatively impact ride comfort, making **17-inch wheels a better choice**.
Despite these issues, the **C70 remains a stylish and comfortable grand tourer**.
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Generations/Trim Levels
The **Volvo C70** was produced across **two generations**, each with distinct features and trim levels:
### **First Generation (1996–2005)**
- Available as both a **coupé (1996–2002)** and **convertible (1997–2005)**.
- Developed in collaboration with **Tom Walkinshaw Racing (TWR)**.
- Offered with **2.0L, 2.3L, and 2.4L turbocharged inline-five engines**.
- Trim levels included:
- **Base Model** – Standard luxury features.
- **GT** – Sportier suspension and upgraded interior.
- **T5** – High-performance variant with a **240 hp turbocharged engine**.
### **Second Generation (2006–2013)**
- Only available as a **convertible** with a **retractable hardtop**.
- Built on the **P1 platform**, shared with the Volvo S40 and V50.
- Trim levels included:
- **SE** – Base model with premium features.
- **SE Lux** – Added luxury touches like **leather seats and upgraded audio**.
- **Inscription (2011–2013)** – Special edition with **unique styling and premium materials**.
The **C70 evolved from a stylish grand tourer to a refined convertible**, blending **performance, comfort, and Scandinavian design**.
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Engines
The **Volvo C70** was offered with a range of **inline-five engines**, both petrol and diesel, across its two generations:
### **First Generation (1996–2005)**
- **2.0L Turbo I5** – **163 hp**
- **2.3L Turbo I5 (T5)** – **240 hp**
- **2.4L Turbo I5** – **193 hp**
- **2.5L Turbo I5** – **245 hp**
### **Second Generation (2006–2013)**
- **2.5L Turbo I5 (T5)** – **230 hp**
- **2.0L Diesel I5 (D3/D4)** – **150–177 hp**
The **T5 models** were the most powerful, offering strong performance and a refined driving experience.
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Performance
The **Volvo C70** offered a range of performance figures depending on the generation and engine choice. Here’s a breakdown:
### **First Generation (1996–2005)**
- **Power Output**: **163–245 hp**
- **0-60 mph**: **6.7–10.4 seconds**
- **Top Speed**: **140–155 mph**
- **Fuel Economy**: **24–31 mpg**
### **Second Generation (2006–2013)**
- **Power Output**: **134–226 hp**
- **0-60 mph**: **7.4–10.7 seconds**
- **Top Speed**: **130–145 mph**
- **Fuel Economy**: **28–47 mpg**
The **T5 models** were the most powerful, offering strong acceleration and a refined driving experience.
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Rivals
Here’s how the **Volvo C70** compared to its main rivals in terms of performance in the UK during the late 1990s:
- **Volvo C70 T5 (1997–2002)**
- **0-60 mph**: **6.7 seconds**
- **Top Speed**: **155 mph**
- **Power**: **240 hp**
- **BMW 328i Coupe (E36, 1995–1999)**
- **0-60 mph**: **7.3 seconds**
- **Top Speed**: **143 mph**
- **Power**: **193 hp**
- **Mercedes-Benz CLK 320 (1997–2002)**
- **0-60 mph**: **7.5 seconds**
- **Top Speed**: **149 mph**
- **Power**: **218 hp**
- **Audi A4 Cabriolet 2.8 (1997–2002)**
- **0-60 mph**: **7.8 seconds**
- **Top Speed**: **140 mph**
- **Power**: **193 hp**
- **Saab 900 Turbo Convertible (1994–1998)**
- **0-60 mph**: **7.5 seconds**
- **Top Speed**: **140 mph**
- **Power**: **185 hp**
- **Jaguar XK8 Coupe (1996–2005)**
- **0-60 mph**: **6.4 seconds**
- **Top Speed**: **155 mph**
- **Power**: **290 hp**
The **Volvo C70 T5** was one of the more powerful options in its class, offering strong acceleration and a refined driving experience. While rivals like the **Jaguar XK8** had more power, the C70 provided a balance of **performance, comfort, and Scandinavian design**.
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Designer/Dimensions
The **Volvo C70** was designed by **Ian Callum** and **Peter Horbury** for the exterior, with **José Luis Diaz de la Vega** responsible for the interior. It was developed in collaboration with **Tom Walkinshaw Racing (TWR)**, bringing a motorsport influence to its styling and engineering.
### **Dimensions**
The measurements varied slightly between generations, but here are the general figures:
- **Height**: **4.64 to 4.69 feet**: Your Go-To Guide - AutoPadre](https://www.autopadre.com/vehicle-dimensions/volvo-c70)
- **Length**: **15.47 feet**: Your Go-To Guide - AutoPadre](https://www.autopadre.com/vehicle-dimensions/volvo-c70)
- **Width**: **5.96 feet**: Your Go-To Guide - AutoPadre](https://www.autopadre.com/vehicle-dimensions/volvo-c70)
- **Wheelbase**: **8.74 feet**: Your Go-To Guide - AutoPadre](https://www.autopadre.com/vehicle-dimensions/volvo-c70)
The **C70** was designed as a stylish grand tourer, blending **performance, comfort, and Scandinavian elegance**.
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Spares/Specialists NI
You have several options for sourcing **Volvo C70 spares** in the **UK and Ireland**, as well as garages in **Northern Ireland** that can service and maintain it.
### **Where to Find Spares**
- **[AutoVillage](https://www.autovillage.co.uk/car-parts/volvo/c70/area/northern-ireland)** – Specializes in **new, used, and refurbished Volvo C70 parts** across Northern Ireland.
- **[AutopartsPro](https://www.autopartspro.co.uk/volvo-c70-carparts)** – Offers a **wide range of replacement parts**, including brakes, suspension, and engine components.
- **[Classic Car Parts](https://store16767407.ecwid.com/)** – Supplier of **reused vehicle parts**, including genuine Volvo components.
### **Northern Ireland Garages for Servicing**
- **[Agnew Belfast – Volvo Cars](https://www.agnewcars.com/volvo/)** – An official **Volvo dealership** offering servicing, repairs, and parts.
- **[Skippy Spares](https://www.facebook.com/people/Skippy-spares/100057497049327/)** – Located in **Lisburn**, specializing in **car parts and end-of-life vehicles**.
- **[Beechill Garage](https://www.bing.com/search?q=Beechill%20Garage&filters=local_ypid%3a%22YN1029x15732578706808402548%22)** – A reputable **car repair establishment** in Belfast.
- **[Belfast Service Centre](https://belfastservicecentre.co.uk)** – Specializes in **Audi servicing**, but may offer general repairs for Volvo models.
These places should have you covered whether you need **spares, servicing, or expert advice**.
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Racing
The **Volvo C70** was not primarily designed for racing, but its development was influenced by **Tom Walkinshaw Racing (TWR)**, a motorsport engineering firm. While the C70 itself did not have a dedicated racing series, Volvo has a strong history in touring car racing, particularly with models like the **850 Estate** and **S40** in the British Touring Car Championship (BTCC).
However, some enthusiasts have modified the **C70 T5** for track use, taking advantage of its **turbocharged five-cylinder engine** and solid chassis.
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Valuation
The **Volvo C70** remains a sought-after grand tourer in the UK, with values varying based on **condition, mileage, and rarity**. As of **2025**, here’s what you can expect:
- **Lowest recorded price**: **£900**
- **Median price**: **£3,500–£7,500**
- **Highest recorded price**: **£7,690**
These figures are based on auction and private sales data. Prices tend to be **higher for well-maintained, low-mileage examples**, especially **T5 models**.
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Clubs
There are **Volvo owner clubs** in **Northern Ireland** where enthusiasts gather to share knowledge, attend events, and discuss their cars. Here are a couple of options:
- **[Volvo Owners Club Forum](https://www.volvoforums.org.uk/forum/technical-topics/c30-s40-v50-04-12-c70-06-13-general/100933-servicing-northern-ireland)** – A dedicated forum for Volvo owners, including discussions on servicing and maintenance in Northern Ireland.
- **[Volvo Car Club UK](https://www.volvoclub.org.uk/)** – A UK-wide club with events, technical advice, and a strong community of Volvo enthusiasts.
These clubs are great for finding **technical advice, parts, and local meet-ups**.
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