Volvo S70R (1997-00)

Overview: The **Volvo S70R (1997-2000)** was a high-performance version of the **S70**, designed to compete with premium sports sedans like the **Audi S4**. Here’s why it was significant:

- **Performance-Oriented Engineering** – It featured a **turbocharged 2.3L inline-five engine**, producing **237 HP** and **330 Nm of torque**, making it one of Volvo’s most powerful sedans of the era.

- **Sporty Design Enhancements** – The **S70R** had a more aggressive front bumper, **five-spoke alloy wheels**, and optional **rear spoiler**, giving it a distinct sporty look.

- **Luxury Meets Speed** – Inside, it had **high-bolstered leather seats**, a driver-focused dashboard, and premium materials, blending **comfort with performance**.

- **Advanced Safety & Technology** – Volvo introduced **WHIPS (Whiplash Protection System)** and **side airbags**, reinforcing its reputation for safety.

- **Successor to the 850 T5-R** – It carried forward the **performance legacy** of the **850 T5-R**, refining the formula for Volvo’s future high-performance models - autoevolution](https://www.autoevolution.com/volvo/s70/).

The **S70R** was a sleeper sedan—fast, comfortable, and packed with Volvo’s signature safety features. 

***** 

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 S70R** is a well-built car, but like any aging performance sedan, it has its share of common issues. Here are some of the most frequently reported faults:

- **Heater Matrix Failure** – Can lead to **wet carpets** in the front footwells and a lack of hot air from the heater.

- **Fuel Flap Hinges Breaking** – The original plastic hinges are prone to failure, requiring a revised fuel flap.

- **ABS Warning Light Issues** – Often caused by a faulty **ABS control module**, though it may incorrectly indicate a rear ABS sensor fault.

- **Upper Engine Mount Wear** – Can result in **knocking noises** during acceleration or gear changes.

- **Anti-Sway Bar End Link Failure** – Affects handling and stability, common across **850, S70, C70, and V70 models**.

Despite these issues, the **S70R** remains a solid and reliable car when properly maintained. Regular servicing and preventative maintenance can help keep these problems at bay.

***** 

Generations/Trim Levels

The **Volvo S70R (1997-2000)** was part of the broader **S70 lineup**, which evolved from the **850 series**. Here’s a breakdown:

**Generations**

The **S70** was produced from **1996 to 2000**, serving as a facelifted version of the **Volvo 850 sedan**. It introduced **smoother styling**, improved safety features, and updated technology. The **S70R** was the high-performance variant, available from **1997 to 2000**, before being succeeded by the **Volvo S60**.

**Trim Levels & Performance Variants**

- **S70 Base Models** – Offered with **2.0L, 2.3L, 2.4L, and 2.5L inline-five engines**, both naturally aspirated and turbocharged.

- **S70 T5** – Featured a **turbocharged 2.3L inline-five**, producing **236 HP**, making it the sportiest non-R variant.

- **S70R** – The **high-performance version**, equipped with a **turbocharged 2.3L engine**, producing **237 HP** with **sport suspension, upgraded brakes, and unique styling**.

- **S70 AWD** – Introduced in **1999**, featuring **all-wheel drive** for improved traction.

The **S70R** was Volvo’s attempt to compete with **Audi’s S4 and BMW’s M3**, blending performance with Volvo’s signature safety and practicality. 

***** 

Designer/Dimensions

The **Volvo S70R** was designed as part of Volvo’s transition from the **850 series**, with styling updates that aligned with the late 1990s design trends. While the specific designer isn't widely documented, the overall **S70 lineup** was developed under Volvo’s design team, which had previously been led by **Jan Wilsgaard**, the legendary designer behind many classic Volvo models.

**Dimensions**

- **Wheelbase**: **104.88 inches (266.4 cm)**

- **Length**: **185.91 inches (472.2 cm)**

- **Width**: **69.33 inches (176.1 cm)**

- **Height**: **55.24 inches (140.3 cm)**

- **Curb Weight**: **3,228 lbs (1,464 kg)**

- **Aerodynamic Drag Coefficient (Cx)**: **0.32**

- **Boot Capacity**: **15.1 cu-ft (427 L)**

The **S70R** refined the **850’s boxy design**, introducing smoother lines while maintaining Volvo’s signature **practicality and safety**. It was a sleeper sedan—fast, comfortable, and subtly aggressive.

***** 

Production Total: The **Volvo S70** had a total production of **243,078 units** between **1996 and 2000**. However, specific numbers for the **S70R** variant are harder to pinpoint. It was a **low-production performance model**, making it rarer than standard S70 trims.

***** 

Price New: In **1997**, the **Volvo S70R** was priced at approximately **£30,000 to £35,000** in the UK, depending on trim level and optional extras. This positioned it competitively against performance sedans from **BMW, Audi, and Mercedes-Benz** at the time.

***** 

Main Rivals: In **1997**, the **Volvo S70R** competed with several high-performance sedans in the UK. Here’s a look at the approximate new prices of its main rivals:

- **BMW M3 (E36)** – Around **£38,000 to £42,000**

- **Audi S4 (B5)** – Around **£32,000 to £36,000**

- **Mercedes-Benz C43 AMG (W202)** – Around **£40,000 to £45,000**

- **Saab 9000 Aero** – Around **£30,000 to £34,000**

- **Ford Mondeo ST200** – Around **£22,000 to £26,000**

The **Volvo S70R** itself was priced between **£30,000 and £35,000**, making it a competitive alternative to German performance sedans while offering Volvo’s signature safety and practicality.

** 

Here’s how the **Volvo S70R** stacked up against its main rivals in terms of performance:

- **BMW M3 (E36)** – **321 HP**, **0-60 mph in 5.5 sec**, **top speed: 155 mph**

- **Audi S4 (B5)** – **265 HP**, **0-60 mph in 5.6 sec**, **top speed: 155 mph**

- **Mercedes-Benz C43 AMG (W202)** – **306 HP**, **0-60 mph in 5.7 sec**, **top speed: 155 mph**

- **Saab 9000 Aero** – **225 HP**, **0-60 mph in 6.7 sec**, **top speed: 149 mph**

- **Ford Mondeo ST200** – **202 HP**, **0-60 mph in 7.5 sec**, **top speed: 140 mph**

The **Volvo S70R** had **247 HP**, **0-60 mph in 6.7 sec**, and a **top speed of 155 mph**, making it competitive with premium sports sedans of the late 1990s. While it wasn’t the fastest, it offered a unique blend of **performance, safety, and practicality**.

***** 

Engine

The **Volvo S70R** was powered by a **2.3-liter turbocharged inline-five engine**, known as the **B5234T4**. Here are its key specs:

- **Displacement**: **2,319 cc (2.3L)**

- **Configuration**: **Inline 5-cylinder**

- **Aspiration**: **Turbocharged with an intercooler**

- **Power Output**: **247 HP (250 PS / 184 kW) @ 6,000 rpm**

- **Torque**: **350 Nm (258 lb-ft) @ 2,400 rpm**

- **Fuel System**: **Bosch Motronic 4.4 multi-port fuel injection**

- **Compression Ratio**: **8.5:1**

- **Drivetrain**: **Front-wheel drive (FWD)**

- **Transmission**: **5-speed manual or 4-speed automatic**

This engine was known for its **strong mid-range torque**, making the **S70R** a surprisingly quick and capable sleeper sedan. It also laid the foundation for later high-performance Volvo models.

***** 

Performance

The **Volvo S70R** delivered impressive performance for its time, blending comfort with serious speed. Here are its key specs:

- **Top Speed**: **155 mph (250 km/h)**

- **0-60 mph**: **6.7 seconds**

- **0-100 km/h**: **6.7 seconds**

- **Power Output**: **247 HP (250 PS / 184 kW) @ 6,000 rpm**

- **Torque**: **350 Nm (258 lb-ft) @ 2,400 rpm**

- **Fuel Economy**: **16.6/8.3/11.4 L/100 km (urban/extra-urban/combined)**

The **S70R** was a refined evolution of the **850 T5-R**, offering strong mid-range acceleration and a comfortable yet sporty driving experience. It was Volvo’s answer to performance sedans from **BMW, Audi, and Mercedes-Benz**.

***** 

Recorded in UK 2025

As of **2025**, there are approximately **8 Volvo S70s** still **licensed** for road use in the UK, with an additional **10 registered as SORN (Statutory Off Road Notification)**. This means a total of **18 recorded units** remain in the country.

*****

Spares/Specialists NI

You’ve got a few solid options for **Volvo S70R spares** and **garage services** in the UK and Ireland, especially in **Northern Ireland**. Here’s where you can look:

### **Spares & Parts Suppliers**

- **[Parts for Volvos Online](https://www.partsforvolvosonline.com/)** – A UK-based site offering a wide range of **genuine and aftermarket Volvo parts**.

- **[Vecos Spares](https://www.bing.com/search?q=Vecos%20Spares&filters=local_ypid%3a%22YN1029x17161763025426207413%22)** – Located in **Armagh**, specializing in **Volvo parts**.

- **[Classic Car Parts](https://store16767407.ecwid.com/)** – Based in **Newtownards**, supplying **reused and genuine vehicle parts**.

- **[AutoVillage](https://www.autovillage.co.uk/car-parts/volvo/850/area/northern-ireland)** – A marketplace for **new, used, and refurbished Volvo 850 and S70R parts** in **Northern Ireland**.

### **Garage Services in Northern Ireland**

- **[Agnew Belfast – Volvo Cars](https://www.agnewcars.com/volvo/)** – An **official Volvo dealership** offering **servicing and parts** in **Belfast**.

- **[Beechill Garage](https://www.bing.com/search?q=Beechill%20Garage&filters=local_ypid%3a%22YN1029x15732578706808402548%22)** – A **trusted car repair shop** in **Belfast**, specializing in **engine, brake, clutch, and suspension repairs**.

- **[Approved Garages Belfast](https://www.approvedgarages.co.uk/mot-servicing-and-repairs/car-brands/volvo/belfast/)** – A network of **independent garages** providing **Volvo servicing and repairs**.

These places should have you covered whether you need **spares** or **maintenance** for your **S70R**. 

***** 

Racing

Unlike its predecessor, the **Volvo 850 T5**, which famously competed in the **British Touring Car Championship (BTCC)**, the **Volvo S70R** did not have a significant presence in professional racing. Volvo focused more on refining the **S70R** as a high-performance road car rather than developing it for motorsport.

However, some **private teams and enthusiasts** have modified and raced **S70R models** in **club-level and amateur racing events**, particularly in **Sweden and the UK**. The car’s **turbocharged five-cylinder engine** and **sport-tuned suspension** made it a solid platform for performance tuning.

***** 

Valuation

In **2025**, the value of a **Volvo S70R** in the UK varies depending on **condition, mileage, and rarity**. Here’s a general price range:

- **Low-end (High mileage, needs work)**: **£2,500 – £5,000**

- **Good condition (Well-maintained, average mileage)**: **£8,000 – £12,000**

- **Top-tier (Low mileage, pristine, rare models)**: **£15,000 – £20,000**

Prices have been **steadily increasing**, especially for well-preserved examples. The **S70R** is becoming a rare find, making it a desirable collector’s car.

*****  

Clubs

If you're a **Volvo S70R** owner in **Northern Ireland**, there are a few clubs and communities where you can connect with fellow enthusiasts:

- **[Volvo Owners' Club](https://www.volvoclub.org.uk/)** – A UK-wide club with events, forums, and resources for all Volvo models, including the **S70R**.

- **[Volvo Forums UK](https://www.volvoforums.org.uk/showthread.php?t=156315)** – A great place for discussions, advice, and networking with other Volvo owners.

- **[PistonHeads Volvo Community](https://www.pistonheads.com/gassing/topic.asp?t=272466)** – While not a dedicated club, this forum has active discussions on **S70R ownership** and maintenance.

- **Local Volvo Meetups** – Some independent Volvo enthusiasts in **Northern Ireland** organize informal meetups and events. Checking social media groups or forums can help you find them.

*****