Overview:
This week we’re looking at the reintroduced Volvo C70 Convertible for 2006. It’s been a roller coaster ride with introduction in 1998 with a fixed top and soft top convertible. They dropped the coupe in ’03 but continued the rag top in ’04, it went into hibernation in ’05 and emerged in 06. Sounds like some women I know.
Well, there is also a 2007 model with only minor changes not worth talking about. But what is worth talking about is that this is a really nice convertible. I wonder about the technical difficulties that may surface with the hard convertible top, but as is it is wonderfully easy and precise – as you’d expect from the Sweeeds.
General Info:
Parts – Sweden – 21%, Germany – 18%, US/Canadian .3%
Assembly – Gothenburg, Sweden
Class: – Sub Compact
Cars: – C70, S40,S60, S80, V50, V70, XC70 and XC 90
Handling & Performance:
Really excellent in the turns. Top down, heater on, let it snow. And this is no slouch in 0-60 mph in about 7 seconds. Speed sensitive power steering is exceptional in feel and function.
Styling:
Very special in look and feel. The added steel supports and unibody construction gives the car an exceptionally solid feel uncharacteristic with many other convertibles. The retractible hardtop is totally power driven with one button control for up and down. Fantastic.
Fit and Finish:
Excellent
Cost:
A little pricey, but this is a fine automobile.
Conveniences and comfort:
This lady is well endowed.
Consumer Recommendation:
Consider the ‘06 model because there were only minor changes in ’07 and you’ll be able to deal a little better – assuming there are any left when you go hunting. But there isn’t a lot in the category so you won’t be overwhelmed with testing.
Recognized Competition:
Volvo C70 $38,710, BMW 3 Series $31-45,000, Audi TT $34-47,000, Jaguar XK Series $75-92,000, Mercedes Benz CLK-Class $46-89,000 and Audi A4 $28-47,000.
Good News:
Beautifully designed convertible, very comfortable, handles great and even with the top down and stowed in the trunk there is a decent cargo cubby hole that will take a good sized suit case.
Standard Equipment:
2.5 liter Inline 5 cylinder 218 horsepower turbocharged engine with variable valve timing, 6 speed manual transmission, front wheel drive, independent supspension with anti-roll bars front and rear, 4-wheel power ABS disc brakes with electronic brake distribution, speed dependent power steering, 17 inch alloy wheels, dynamic stability traction control, roll over protection system with pop up rear roll bars, driver information system, extra strength steel supports, uni-body construction, front and side air bags, engine immobilizer anti theft ignition with coded keys, child seat anchors, fog lights, power retractible steel hardtop, power front seats, leather inserts seating serfaces, locking rear seat pass through, climate control, trip computer and cruise control, power windows with auto up and down, heated rear glass window
Gas Stats:
$2.43/ Gal avg.
20 City and 29 Highway MPG
Pricing:
MSRP $38,710.
