The Volvo V70 II 2.4 (140 Hp) Automatic, produced between 2000 and 2004, represents the second generation of Volvo’s popular station wagon, the V70. This model was primarily aimed at the European market, where large, practical, and safe estate cars were – and continue to be – highly valued. While not directly sold in the United States during this generation, the V70 lineage has a strong following among enthusiasts who appreciate Volvo’s commitment to safety, durability, and understated Scandinavian design. The V70 II offered a compelling blend of family practicality, comfortable long-distance cruising, and a reputation for reliability, making it a popular choice for families and individuals alike.
Volvo V70 II: A Detailed Overview
The V70 II built upon the success of its predecessor, offering increased space, improved refinement, and updated technology. It competed with other premium estate cars such as the Audi A6 Avant, BMW 5 Series Touring, and Mercedes-Benz E-Class Estate. The 2.4-liter engine variant, producing 140 horsepower, was positioned as a sensible and economical option within the V70 range, prioritizing fuel efficiency and everyday usability over outright performance. This model offered a comfortable and practical experience, embodying Volvo’s core values.
Engine & Performance
The Volvo V70 II 2.4 Automatic is powered by a 2.4-liter inline five-cylinder gasoline engine, designated the B5244S2. This naturally aspirated engine produces 140 horsepower at 4500 rpm and 220 Nm (162.26 lb.-ft.) of torque at 3750 rpm. The engine features multi-port fuel injection and a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder. Power is delivered to the front wheels via a five-speed automatic transmission. Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h (0-62 mph) takes 11.4 seconds, while 0 to 60 mph is achieved in approximately 10.8 seconds. The vehicle has a maximum speed of 200 km/h (124.27 mph). The engine’s power-to-weight ratio is 94.4 horsepower per tonne, and the torque-to-weight ratio is 148.3 Nm per tonne. While not a performance-oriented vehicle, the 2.4-liter engine provides adequate power for everyday driving and comfortable highway cruising.
Design & Features
The V70 II retains the classic Volvo station wagon profile – a long, low-slung body with a focus on maximizing cargo space. The vehicle is a five-door, five-seater estate car, offering a spacious and versatile interior. The design emphasizes practicality and functionality, with a large, rectangular cargo area that can be expanded by folding down the rear seats. With the rear seats up, the trunk offers 485 liters (17.13 cu. ft.) of space, expanding to a substantial 1641 liters (57.95 cu. ft.) with the seats folded. Safety was a paramount concern for Volvo, and the V70 II incorporates numerous safety features, including Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), and a robust body structure designed to protect occupants in the event of a collision. Comfort features include hydraulic power steering and a well-appointed interior, reflecting Volvo’s commitment to providing a refined driving experience. The vehicle’s dimensions are 4710 mm (185.43 in.) in length, 1804 mm (71.02 in.) in width, and 1465 mm (57.68 in.) in height.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Volvo |
| Model | V70 |
| Generation | V70 II |
| Type (Engine) | 2.4 (140 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | 2000 |
| End of production | 2004 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Station wagon (estate) |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 13.5 l/100 km (17.4 US mpg, 20.9 UK mpg, 7.4 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 7.3 l/100 km (32.2 US mpg, 38.7 UK mpg, 13.7 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 9.6 l/100 km (24.5 US mpg, 29.4 UK mpg, 10.4 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 11.4 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 11.4 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 10.8 sec |
| Maximum speed | 200 km/h (124.27 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 10.6 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 6.7 kg/Nm |
| Power | 140 Hp @ 4500 rpm |
| Power per litre | 57.5 Hp/l |
| Torque | 220 Nm @ 3750 rpm (162.26 lb.-ft. @ 3750 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | B5244S2 |
| 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 | 8.8 l (9.3 US qt | 7.74 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1483 kg (3269.46 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2150 kg (4739.94 lbs.) |
| Max load | 667 kg (1470.48 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 485 l (17.13 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1641 l (57.95 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 70 l (18.49 US gal | 15.4 UK gal) |
| Length | 4710 mm (185.43 in.) |
| Width | 1804 mm (71.02 in.) |
| Height | 1465 mm (57.68 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2755 mm (108.46 in.) |
| Front track | 1563 mm (61.54 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1560 mm (61.42 in.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 5 gears, automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Wishbone |
| 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 |
The Volvo V70 II 2.4 Automatic remains a respected vehicle, known for its practicality, safety, and durability. While not the fastest or most technologically advanced car in its class, it offers a compelling package for those seeking a comfortable, reliable, and spacious estate car.
