1998 Volvo V70 T5 review from UK and Ireland

Steering wheel replaced due to peeling plastic. Garage fixed it instantly under warranty; no fuss.

Numerous front light bulbs; learned to change them myself in seconds.

Brake discs replaced at great expense; should be cheaper.

Front tyres wear too fast.

Severe rattles, particularly of rear door, plus squeaky dashboard.

After 3 Audis, I had a bad one; build quality was slipping, so I got a Volvo V70 estate.

The car arrived; brand new and we loved it. Fast, quiet and comfortable. Low servicing costs, moderate fuel consumption, but mediocre roadholding (it's the old model). Ferocious acceleration; you can fishtail if you overdo it. No cup holder, gasp.

In its middle years, still a good car, but starting to squeak and rattle. Still comfortable and fast. Passengers love it; especially the sound system.

Now as it approaches 100,000 miles, a few paint chips, still very quick indeed, seat starting to sag a bit, servicing costs getting too steep; often £750, and the back door rattles badly enough to drive you crazy. Oh dear; it's not going to last as long as an Audi. The car goes well, but how can you concentrate; rattle, rattle, squeak and rattle...