SecondHandSense: Volvo V70 estateReporting on the launch of the latest Volvo V70 estate recently, I was reminded to comment on how slowly Volvo estates change and that many older models resemble breeze blocks on wheels.
The Volvo estate is exactly that - a big, boxy car that will take the kitchen sink and not just a re-working of a car design. Volvo owners tend not to be all that fashion-conscious. They are more interested in a car that is safe, solid and reliable and the relationship tends to be a long and loyal one.
One cannot but be fond of a car like the Volvo V70 estate. It has had its problems and has become a victim of serious competition from SUVs and suchlike, but it is far less pretentious and its abilities are more than adequate.
The current model (the new one will not be here for some time) has been around for some seven years now and has built up a fairly loyal following among antique dealers, family drivers and others who need to fling a good deal into a car without finding their chests against the steering wheel. It is not, however, quite as spacious as the external design suggests. It is boxy and long, and it can be hard to park in confined spaces. There is a choice of petrol or diesel engines. The 2-litre petrol with a light turbo makes sense while the bigger engines are a waste of petrol and tax money. The 2.4 diesel won't make many friends because of its tractor-like noise levels, but those who travel substantial distances and need the torque (pulling power) will appreciate the benefits.
This is a car you could live in. The boot takes plenty and the car is very comfortable, especially over long distances. Also, for a car of its size and weight it is nicely balanced in terms of ride and handling.
The inside is very Scandinavian. Everything is practical, well designed, sturdy and easy to use. Dials and instrumentation are clear and functional and they don't confuse.
The radio and music system are high quality and easy to use when driving.
Volvos may go on for ever, but they do have problems and they can be very expensive to fix. The V70 has been among a number of Volvo cars that have been recalled for problems with headlights, electronic cooling fans, tow bars and suspension systems.
The V70 scored four out of a possible five stars in its EuroNCAP crash tests and the number of airbags contained in the car may be reason enough for some people to buy the car.
A 2003 car with a 2.4-litre diesel engine, alloys, metallic paint, air conditioning, leather upholstery, traction control, heated seats, other more standard equipment and with 90,000km on the clock is on offer for €26,900.
A 2005 2-litre petrol estate with the same equipment and with 32,000km up is on offer for €37,250.
FOR:Comfortable. Solid AGAINST:Limited boot space, dull design. High second-hand prices