The Volvo S80 2.4 20V, produced between 1999 and 2003, represented a significant step forward for the Swedish automaker, embodying their commitment to safety, comfort, and understated luxury. This variant, equipped with a 2.4-liter inline-five engine producing 170 horsepower and paired with a five-speed automatic transmission, occupied a crucial mid-range position within the first-generation (P2 platform) S80 lineup. It aimed to provide a balance between performance and fuel efficiency, appealing to buyers seeking a refined and practical executive sedan.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Volvo |
| Model | S80 |
| Generation | S80 |
| Type (Engine) | 2.4 20V (170 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | 1999 |
| End of production | 2003 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 11 l/100 km (21.4 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 7.4 l/100 km (31.8 US mpg) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 9.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 9.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 9.4 sec |
| Maximum speed | 215 km/h (133.59 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 8.6 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 6.4 kg/Nm |
| Power | 170 Hp @ 5900 rpm |
| Torque | 230 Nm @ 4500 rpm (169.64 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 | 1470 kg (3240.8 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2140 kg (4717.89 lbs.) |
| Max load | 670 kg (1477.1 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 440 l (15.54 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1106 l (39.06 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 80 l (21.13 US gal | 17.6 UK gal) |
| Length | 4822 mm (189.84 in.) |
| Width | 1832 mm (72.13 in.) |
| Height | 1434 mm (56.46 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2791 mm (109.88 in.) |
| Front track | 1562 mm (61.5 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1560 mm (61.42 in.) |
| 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, automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Coil spring |
| Rear suspension | Coil spring |
| 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 | 205/65 R15 |
| Wheel rims size | 15 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the S80 2.4 is Volvo’s B5244S engine, a 2.4-liter inline-five cylinder powerplant. This engine, a hallmark of Volvo’s engineering during the late 1990s and early 2000s, featured a cast iron block and an aluminum cylinder head. The “20V” designation indicates the engine’s use of four valves per cylinder, contributing to its improved breathing and power output. Fuel delivery was managed by a multi-port fuel injection system, providing precise fuel metering for optimal combustion. The engine’s durability was enhanced by a timing belt, requiring periodic replacement as part of scheduled maintenance. The five-speed automatic transmission, sourced from Aisin Warner, was chosen for its smoothness and reliability. While not a performance-oriented transmission, it offered comfortable and predictable shifts, well-suited to the S80’s grand touring character.
Driving Characteristics
The S80 2.4 Automatic delivered a comfortable and composed driving experience. With 170 horsepower and 230 Nm (169.64 lb-ft) of torque, acceleration was adequate for everyday driving, achieving 0-60 mph in approximately 9.4 seconds. However, it wasn’t designed for spirited performance. The automatic transmission, while smooth, did contribute to a slight reduction in responsiveness compared to the available manual transmission. Gear ratios were tuned for fuel efficiency and cruising comfort, rather than outright acceleration. The engine provided a linear power delivery, making it easy to modulate throttle inputs. Compared to the higher-output 2.9-liter six-cylinder models, the 2.4 offered a more economical driving experience, but at the expense of outright performance. The 2.4 was also a more sensible choice than the turbocharged variants for drivers prioritizing fuel economy and lower maintenance costs.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The S80 2.4 Automatic typically came standard with a respectable array of features, reflecting Volvo’s emphasis on safety and comfort. Standard equipment included power windows, power locks, a power sunroof, and air conditioning. The interior featured cloth upholstery, although leather was available as an option. Safety features were comprehensive, including ABS brakes, front airbags, and side airbags. Optional extras included a premium audio system, heated front seats, and automatic climate control. Trim levels varied slightly depending on the market, but generally, the 2.4 Automatic represented a well-equipped mid-range offering, positioned above the base models but below the more luxurious trims with larger engines and more extensive features.
Chassis & Braking
The S80 2.4 utilized a fully independent suspension system, with coil springs and shock absorbers at all four corners. This setup provided a comfortable ride quality, effectively absorbing bumps and irregularities in the road surface. The front suspension featured stabilizer bars to reduce body roll during cornering. Braking duties were handled by ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear, providing adequate stopping power for the vehicle’s weight. The ABS anti-lock braking system was standard, enhancing safety by preventing wheel lockup during hard braking. The steering system employed a rack-and-pinion setup with hydraulic power assistance, offering precise and responsive steering feel.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Volvo S80 2.4 Automatic was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its comfortable ride, spacious interior, and comprehensive safety features. However, some reviewers noted that its performance was not as exhilarating as some of its competitors. Fuel economy was considered respectable for its class, although not class-leading. Compared to the more powerful S80 variants, the 2.4 offered a more affordable entry point into the Volvo luxury sedan range. It appealed to buyers who prioritized comfort, safety, and reliability over outright performance. Against rivals like the BMW 5 Series and Mercedes-Benz E-Class, the S80 2.4 offered a unique blend of Scandinavian design and practicality.
Legacy
The Volvo S80 2.4 Automatic has proven to be a relatively reliable vehicle, with many examples still on the road today. The B5244S engine is known for its durability, although regular maintenance, including timing belt replacement, is crucial. The Aisin Warner automatic transmission is also generally considered to be robust. Common issues include oil leaks and wear on suspension components. In the used car market, the S80 2.4 Automatic represents a good value proposition, offering a comfortable and safe driving experience at an affordable price. It remains a popular choice for buyers seeking a well-built and reliable Swedish sedan.
