Volvo C70

C70 in brief

The C70 was produced in two generations. The first generation (1996–2005) was offered as a coupé and as a convertible with a soft fabric roof, while the second generation (2006–2013) was only available as a coupé-convertible with a three-piece folding metal roof. Both generations feature four full-sized seats, which is relatively rare for this class of car.

The C70 is praised for its smooth, comfortable ride, supportive seats, and Volvo's safety solutions: convertibles come with a roll-over protection system, and in the second generation, side curtain airbags deploy from the doors upwards. It's not a sports car, but rather suited to leisurely drives and relaxed motoring.

First and Second Generations — What's the Difference

The first generation was based on the 850 and S70 models, so it features their characteristic five-cylinder engines and front-wheel drive. The coupé was produced until 2002, and the convertible until 2005. These are now older cars, and their value largely depends on condition and service history.

The second generation was co-designed with Pininfarina and built on the same platform as the S40 and V50. Its sleek metal roof allows for winter driving like a regular coupé — quiet and warm inside, making it more practical for Lithuania's climate. The downside is that lowering the roof significantly reduces the boot space.

In late 2009 (2010 model year), the second generation was refreshed: it received a new front end with larger grilles, different front and rear lights, and an updated interior. For many buyers, this is the best choice — the car is newer, and the technology is already refined.

Engines and gearboxes

The first generation featured only turbocharged five-cylinder petrol engines: most commonly 2.0 and 2.4 (around 160–200 hp) and the most powerful 2.3 T5 (around 240 hp). This generation did not have any diesel versions.

The second generation most often features petrol engines like the 2.4i (around 140–170 hp) and the T5 2.5 turbo (around 220–230 hp), as well as diesels like the 2.0 D (around 136 hp) and the five-cylinder 2.4 D5 (around 180 hp). The 2.0 petrol engine is less common. Names and power outputs varied slightly by year and market.

Gearboxes come in 5 or 6-speed manual and automatic Geartronic. The automatic gearbox is often paired with T5 and D5 engines and suits the car's relaxed character well.

What to check when buying a used C70

The roof mechanism is key. Open and close the roof a few times: it should move smoothly, without stopping or error messages. Issues often stem from sensors, connectors, or hydraulics, and repairs can be costly. Check for water leaks: lift the mats, inspect the boot and roof seals.

The fabric roof of the first-gen cabriolet should be watertight, and its hydraulics should work. In five-cylinder engines, check for oil leaks, ensure the turbo spins evenly, and ask when the timing belt was last changed. For diesels that have done a lot of city driving, check the particulate filter (DPF) and EGR valve.

The automatic gearbox should shift smoothly, without jolts. Check the service history for the engine, and inspect the body for repainted parts and uneven gaps, especially around the boot lid, which is part of the roof mechanism on the second-gen.

Trim levels

Names and equipment vary by market and year; we list the most common second-gen trims found in Europe. In the UK, they are known as S, SE, and SE Lux.

Comparison of second-generation trims

Most buyers' best bet is the refreshed second-gen (from 2010) Momentum or Summum trim with the D5 or 2.4i engine. The T5 is worth considering if you want more power, but the condition of the roof mechanism is more important than the engine or trim.

Frequently asked questions