What they said when the Volvo C70 was new… (Aug 28 2001)
THE blend of style and refinement with comfort is the outstanding feature of the Volvo C70 Convertible 2.0T.
The entry level version of Volvo's open-topped tourer range is a delight to drive even if it lacks the effortless power delivery of its bigger engined stablemates.
You could choose a 193bhp 2.4T or full blown 240bhp T5 version, but if you really do not need so much power and insurance group penalties, then the 2.0T is a worthwhile alternative. For your money you buy all the style of the model and a host of worthwhile standard features, and you can always upgrade with an extensive options list to precisely tailor the car to individual requirements.
The starter model in the series really lacks very little in any case and being a convertible it has the biggest attraction in the shape of a fully electric roof which dispenses with manual hooks and catches and is operated by a simple fascia switch. It takes under 30 seconds to open or close the roof and for topless touring you can fit a wind-deflector, although I found this unnecessary.
The soft-top folded away out of sight under a hard tonneau cover but even erect it looked attractive in profile even if it seriously diminished visibility to the sides and back.
The 2.0 litre turbo-charged engine was very willing and smooth but in give and take driving conditions it took some time to hit its power curve and overtaking needed careful planning. When the power came on stream it was very strong and eager and you could safely nip around other vehicles and it was not noisy.
The easy clutch and positive slick gear change with sensible ratios were a good match as well and I liked the powerful brakes and balanced feel to the steering. Stalk controls were close and convenient but some of the secondary switches were out of direct sight on the fascia behind the wheel and the central console carried a somewhat confusing display for the entertainment and environmental comfort systems. With the roof closed, the air conditioning was very effective.
Oddments room was fairly good but not particularly generous and the boot space suffered from the need to accommodate the folding roof compartment so it would take only limited luggage. Interestingly, Volvo offer a boot mounted luggage rack as an accessory.
For occupants, it was fairly easy to climb into the back seats and effortless to sit in front. Once inside the seats were very large, supporting and enveloping in the style of an American model and adjustment range was good. However, the size of the headrests combined with the hood and high tail meant visibility was poor over the shoulder when reversing. Lights and wipers gave extremely good forward sight.
There is the tendency for any convertible to be too hard riding to meet the sporting aspirations of owners, but the Volvo C70 2.0T was an exception and it was surprisingly smooth and comfortable. Body roll was present, but not excessive, and it felt reassuringly composed over bumps which would shake a lesser convertible.
The handling was not as sharp as in some rivals but it had no real vices and it held on well on tight turns.
The bare figures show it was not slow but quite respectable accelerating and it cruised easily and quietly at the motorway limit.
But perhaps the biggest surprise was the remarkably good fuel economy for such a large and not insubstantial car, showing that its engine characteristics and gearing have been carefully matched.
The Volvo C70 Convertible 2.0T is a very capable all rounder, so long as you do not want a lot of power. Just enjoy the glory that is this Volvo.
Words: Robin Roberts
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