The Volvo S80 2.4 20V (170 hp) represents a significant iteration of Volvo’s flagship sedan, produced from 2003 to 2006 as part of the second-generation S80 (P2 platform) facelift. This variant occupied a middle ground within the S80 lineup, offering a balance between performance and fuel efficiency, aimed at buyers seeking a comfortable and refined executive car without the higher price tag of the range-topping models. The facelift brought revised styling, improved safety features, and updated engine options, solidifying the S80’s reputation as a safe and sophisticated vehicle.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Volvo |
| Model | S80 |
| Generation | S80 (facelift 2003) |
| Type (Engine) | 2.4 20V (170 Hp) |
| Start of production | 2003 |
| End of production | 2006 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 12.6 l/100 km (18.7 US mpg, 22.4 UK mpg, 7.9 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 7.1 l/100 km (33.1 US mpg, 39.8 UK mpg, 14.1 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 9.1 l/100 km (25.8 US mpg, 31 UK mpg, 11 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 217 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 8.6 sec |
| Maximum speed | 220 km/h (136.7 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 4 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 8.9 kg/Hp, 111.8 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 6.8 kg/Nm, 147.9 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 170 Hp @ 6000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 69.8 Hp/l |
| Torque | 225 Nm @ 4500 rpm (165.95 lb.-ft. @ 4500 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | B5244S |
| Engine displacement | 2435 cm3 (148.59 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 5 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 83 mm (3.27 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 90 mm (3.54 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10.3:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 5.5 l (5.81 US qt | 4.84 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 8 l (8.45 US qt | 7.04 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1521 kg (3353.23 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2020 kg (4453.34 lbs.) |
| Max load | 499 kg (1100.11 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 460 l (16.24 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1126 l (39.76 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 70 l (18.49 US gal | 15.4 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 100 kg (220.46 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1800 kg (3968.32 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 750 kg (1653.47 lbs.) |
| Permitted towbar download | 75 kg (165.35 lbs.) |
| Length | 4822 mm (189.84 in.) |
| Width | 1832 mm (72.13 in.) |
| Height | 1452 mm (57.17 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2791 mm (109.88 in.) |
| Front track | 1570 mm (61.81 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1548 mm (60.94 in.) |
| Front overhang | 964 mm (37.95 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 1067 mm (42.01 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 11.6 m (38.06 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the front wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 5 gears, manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent type McPherson |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link suspension |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | 215/55 R16; 225/50 R17 |
| Wheel rims size | 7J x 16; 7J x 17 |
INTRODUCTION
The Volvo S80 2.4 20V (170 hp), produced between 2003 and 2006, was a key component of Volvo’s second-generation S80 lineup. This facelifted version built upon the foundation laid by the original P2 platform S80, introducing subtle but important refinements to the exterior styling, interior appointments, and mechanical components. Positioned as a mainstream offering within the S80 range, the 2.4-liter engine paired with a five-speed automatic transmission provided a comfortable and accessible entry point into Volvo’s premium sedan segment. It aimed to appeal to buyers prioritizing safety, comfort, and a refined driving experience over outright performance.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of the S80 2.4 20V lies the Volvo B5244S engine, a 2.4-liter inline-five cylinder powerplant. This engine, a hallmark of Volvo’s engineering, featured a cast iron block and an aluminum cylinder head, incorporating a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder. The ‘20V’ designation refers to the 20 valves (four per cylinder) contributing to efficient gas exchange. Fuel delivery was managed by a multi-port fuel injection system, ensuring precise fuel metering for optimal combustion. The engine produced 170 horsepower at 6000 rpm and 225 Nm (165.95 lb-ft) of torque at 4500 rpm. The five-speed automatic transmission, typically an Aisin-sourced unit, was calibrated for smooth shifts and comfortable cruising, prioritizing fuel efficiency over aggressive acceleration.
Driving Characteristics
The S80 2.4 with the automatic transmission delivered a composed and comfortable driving experience. Acceleration from 0-60 mph took approximately 8.6 seconds, and 0-100 km/h in 9 seconds, making it adequately quick for everyday driving and highway merging. However, it wasn’t designed for sporty performance. The automatic transmission, while smooth, could feel somewhat hesitant during quick overtaking maneuvers. Compared to the available manual transmission or the more powerful 2.9-liter or turbocharged variants, the 2.4 automatic offered a more relaxed and less engaging driving experience. The gear ratios were optimized for fuel economy and cruising comfort, rather than maximizing acceleration. The engine’s torque curve provided sufficient power for most driving situations, but lacked the punch of the higher-output engines.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The S80 2.4 20V typically came equipped with a respectable level of standard features. These included climate control, power windows and locks, a CD stereo system, and alloy wheels. Safety was, as always with Volvo, a priority, with standard features like ABS brakes, side airbags, and a robust safety cage structure. Higher trim levels offered options such as leather upholstery, a premium audio system, sunroof, and wood trim interior accents. The interior design emphasized Scandinavian minimalism, with a focus on functionality and comfort. The dashboard layout was clean and intuitive, with logically placed controls.
Chassis & Braking
The S80 2.4 utilized an independent suspension system, with McPherson struts at the front and a multi-link setup at the rear. This configuration provided a comfortable ride quality, effectively absorbing bumps and irregularities in the road surface. The braking system consisted of ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear, providing adequate stopping power for the vehicle’s weight. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) was standard, enhancing braking performance and stability, particularly in adverse conditions. Stabilizer bars were fitted to both the front and rear axles to reduce body roll during cornering.
Market Reception & Comparison
The S80 2.4 20V was generally well-received by automotive critics as a comfortable, safe, and refined sedan. However, it wasn’t often praised for its performance. Compared to the more powerful S80 variants, the 2.4 offered a more affordable entry point into the model range, but at the expense of outright speed. Fuel economy was respectable for its class, averaging around 25.8 US mpg in combined driving. Reliability was generally good, although some owners reported minor issues with the automatic transmission over time. The 2.4 was often seen as a sensible choice for buyers prioritizing comfort, safety, and a smooth driving experience over sporty handling or blistering acceleration.
Legacy
The Volvo S80 2.4 20V has proven to be a relatively durable and reliable vehicle in the used car market. The B5244S engine is known for its longevity, and with proper maintenance, can provide many years of service. While not a collector’s item, well-maintained examples of the S80 2.4 continue to offer a comfortable and safe driving experience at an affordable price. The car represents a high point in Volvo’s commitment to safety and Scandinavian design, and remains a popular choice for buyers seeking a dependable and refined mid-size sedan.
