1998 Volvo S70 T-5 review from North America
"Strong, safe, fast and occasionally acts like a European luxury sedan"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
Needed radiator hoses, rear brake pads, new struts, could use a heater core... but that will wait until I get around to it.
General comments?
This car is a very nice ride. It is a very adult step up from my 2004 WRX wagon. It doesn't make me feel like a tuner dude.
It handles well. It is a dog off the line, but 30-50 and 70-90 are really very strong. It is a sleeper for sure.
I think the best way to look at this car if you are looking to purchase used is: 1) do I really like cars... I mean really. Not like "I want a Ferrari but what is a valve job?". If you do like cars this one will reward you with a very nice ride with minimal issues. But there will be issues. This is not NOT a Honda Accord. If you are looking at a Japanese car and this, and want to know the difference... well cost and total overall reliability. Japan trumps Europe. Also if you do go for this car... can you occasionally afford a payment on the original price of the car? If you can make a $500 monthly payment once in a while... you found your car. If not... it will eat you alive. (always trumped by being your own good wrench)
Recommended reviews
| Great vehicle, but potentially costly |
|
| Regardless of the great handling and comfort, terrible engineering makes this my last Volvo ever |
| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | Yes |
| Model year | 1998 |
| Year of manufacture | 1997 |
| First year of ownership | 2008 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2009 |
| Engine and transmission | 2.3 turbo Automatic |
| Performance marks | 8 / 10 |
| Reliability marks | 6 / 10 |
| Comfort marks | 10 / 10 |
| Dealer Service marks | |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 5 / 10 |
| Overall marks (average of all marks) | |
| Distance when acquired | 106000 miles |
| Most recent distance | 111000 miles |
| Previous car | Subaru Impreza |
| Date of Entry | 15th July, 2009 |