SecondHandSense: Volvo S40 post-2004Given that, in their basic guises at least, neither the BMW 3-Series or the Mercedes C-Class are all that exciting, it is ironic that the Volvo S40 should be deemed so sedate by many. It's a competitor for the two big German names, but the power of branding means it has an uphill struggle. The compact Volvo has been around since 1996 and was one of the cars that moved Volvo from its traditional boxy profile to something more rounded, modern and appealing.
However, an effort to introduce more powerful engines and performance engineering on some models appears to have been a rather fruitless exercise because, ultimately, Volvo is a conservative brand, as are most of its customers.
As a second-hand option, the S40 can offer a good alternative to some more mainstream models, because Volvo's habit of offering all sorts of options, from engine size to extras such as leather upholstery, means you can pick up a well-equipped car for a relatively low price.
The car traditionally comes with a choice of 1.6-litre petrol, 1.8-litre petrol and 2-litre diesel engines. The 1.6-litre feels underpowered and the 2-litre diesel is a tad unrefined, so the 1.8-litre petrol is probably the best option.
The design is pleasing, and overall it has aged well and a 2004 version will carry itself well in comparison to others. Its interior is smart, functional and cleanly designed. There is no excess of dials or information sources, but you will find everything you need within line of sight and easy to read. Seats are comfortable and interior space is cleverly used.
When you look at the limited capacity of the boot, you will be reminded that this is not a big car, but it feels big enough when you are driving it. Rear passengers may not think so, and it can be cramped enough back there, especially if you try to take three in the back.
The 1.8-litre petrol carries the car nicely and has more than enough response for most driving conditions. Steering can be a bit vague on older models, and the ride can feel exceptionally choppy on cars fitted with sports suspension systems.
It's best to keep it simple and go for a model that has plenty of extras, other than sports ones. The revised 2004 model is the more modern although some are still taken by the earlier model, whose design is not as sharp.
The S40 did have some quality problems in its early days, but recalls have been restricted to small numbers in more recent years. Reliability has been quite good, and the Ford influence has been notable in this regard.
The S40 has a five-star EuroNCAP crash test rating, and the car is described as having a very strong passenger safety cage and good child protection.
A 2003 model with the 1.8-litre petrol engine, air conditioning, leather upholstery, multiple airbags, full electrics and alloys and with 30,000km up has an asking price of €15,950. A similar 2004 model with higher mileage costs about €14,000.
FOR:Volvo quality and practicality
AGAINST:Rear space and boot space. Image