Volvo V40 1996 - 2004
2.0 Stats
Top speed: 127mph
0-60mph: 9.7 seconds
Economy: 34.9 mpg
NCAP: N/a (but it is a Volvo)
Why Buy: It is a very well styled and handsome, compact estate car. Unlike many so-called lifestyle vehicles it is actually practical, feels incredibly safe and has high levels of standard equipment. This is the classy buy for those who want something more than a Mondeo.
Equipment: A very impressive amount of standard kit that includes air conditioning, alloy wheels and electric mirrors, but there have been loads of confusing badges over the years. Classic Sport has climate control as does the SE, so check the model you want to buy carefully.
Driving: You don’t buy any Volvo for the driving experience and the V40, just does its job getting you and your family from A to B and then C safely. The steering is always light and the engines are strong, but the 2.0 Turbo is probably too quick to be comfortable.
Marketplace: It may come as a surprise to most people but Volvos depreciate quite quickly - even the sought after estates. So these are good value and as ever it is the petrol engines, which are undervalued.
Best Buys: The 2.0 is nippy and if you don’t do a massive mileage, it isn’t too bad on the fuel. The 1.6 is a bargain basement buy too, whilst a 1.9D stacks up for heavy use, as it will deliver you over 50mpg.
Sum Up: This is the sensible and stylish buy for those who want a practical small family car. There is nothing inherently bad about this car and it has all the kit you need, plus the neighbours will be impressed and not believe how little you may have paid.
Words: James Ruppert