2001 Volvo S60 2.4L

Overview

The 2001 Volvo S60 represented a significant departure for the Swedish manufacturer, marking the brand’s move toward a more dynamic and emotive design language. Replacing the boxy S70, the S60 was engineered on the P2 platform, which it shared with the larger S80 sedan. This architecture allowed for improved structural rigidity and a more sophisticated suspension geometry, positioning the S60 as a direct competitor to the BMW 3 Series and the Mercedes-Benz C-Class. Its silhouette featured a coupe-like roofline and pronounced shoulder lines, elements that would define Volvo’s aesthetic for the next decade.

Under the hood, the 2001 S60 utilized Volvo’s modular five-cylinder engine family, renowned for its distinct exhaust note and reliability. The 2.4-liter naturally aspirated variant provided a balanced entry point into the lineup, focusing on smooth power delivery rather than outright performance. Inside, the cabin emphasized ergonomic simplicity and safety, featuring the brand’s signature “floating” center console design and high-quality materials. As a front-wheel-drive sedan, the S60 prioritized comfort and stability, catering to professionals who valued Scandinavian minimalism and industry-leading safety standards over the aggressive handling characteristics of its German rivals.

Vehicle Overview
Brand	Volvo
Model	S60
Model Year	2001
Generation	1st Generation
Trim	2.4
Body Style	4-door Sedan
Vehicle Segment	Entry-level Luxury
Vehicle Class	Compact Cars
Market	USA
Platform	P2
Assembly Plant	Ghent, Belgium
Country of Origin	Belgium
Production Start	2000
Production End	2009
VIN Identifier	YV1
Base MSRP	$26,500
Destination Charge	$575
Total MSRP	$27,075
Powertrain
Powertrain Type	Internal Combustion
Engine Family	Volvo Modular Engine
Engine Name	B5244S
Engine Code	–
Engine Configuration	Inline-5
Displacement	2.4 Liters
Bore x Stroke	83.0 mm x 90.0 mm
Compression Ratio	10.3:1
Aspiration	Naturally Aspirated
Fuel Delivery	Multi-point Fuel Injection
Valve Train	DOHC, 4 valves per cylinder
Engine Block Material	Aluminum Alloy
Cylinder Head Material	Aluminum Alloy
Oil Capacity	6.1 qts
Oil Specification / Viscosity	5W-30
Horsepower	168 hp @ 5,900 rpm
Torque	170 lb-ft @ 4,500 rpm
Redline	6,500 rpm
Drivetrain	Front-Wheel Drive
Transmission	Manual 5-spd
Final Drive Ratio	4.00:1
Axle Ratio	–
Fuel Economy
Fuel Type	Premium Gasoline
Recommended Octane	91
EPA City MPG	19
EPA Highway MPG	25
EPA Combined MPG	21
Fuel Economy (L/100 km)	11.2
Fuel Tank Capacity (gal)	18.5
Estimated Driving Range	388 miles
Annual Fuel Cost	–
CO₂ Emissions	–
Greenhouse Gas Score	–
Smog Rating	–
Performance
0-30 mph	3.2 s
0-60 mph	8.5 s
0-100 mph	24.2 s
Quarter Mile	16.5 s
Top Speed	130 mph
Braking Distance (60-0 mph)	132 ft
Lateral Acceleration	0.78g
Power-to-Weight Ratio	19.5 lb/hp
Dimensions & Capacities
Length (in)	180.3
Width (Without Mirrors) (in)	71.0
Width (With Mirrors) (in)	–
Height (in)	56.2
Wheelbase (in)	106.9
Front Track (in)	61.4
Rear Track (in)	61.2
Ground Clearance (in)	5.4
Curb Weight (lbs)	3,285
GVWR (lbs)	4,300
Towing Capacity (lbs)	3,300
Payload Capacity (lbs)	1,015
Passenger Volume (cu ft)	93.0
Cargo Volume (Behind Rear Seats) (cu ft)	13.9
Cargo Volume (Max) (cu ft)	–
Turning Circle	35.8 ft
Approach Angle	–
Departure Angle	–
Breakover Angle	–
Safety Ratings
NHTSA Overall Rating	–
NHTSA Frontal Crash	–
NHTSA Side Crash	–
NHTSA Rollover	–
IIHS Award	–
Small Overlap Front	–
Moderate Overlap Front	Good
Side Impact	Good
Headlights Rating	–
Front Crash Prevention	–
Technology & Connectivity
Infotainment Display	None
Instrument Cluster	Analog
Apple CarPlay	No
Android Auto	No
Navigation System	Optional
Audio System	AM/FM/CD/Cassette
Speaker Count	6
Wireless Charging	No
Wi-Fi Hotspot	No
OTA Updates	No
Digital Key	No
Warranty & Ownership
Basic Warranty	4 yr / 50,000 mi
Powertrain Warranty	4 yr / 50,000 mi
Corrosion Warranty	8 yr / unlimited
Roadside Assistance	4 yr / unlimited
Complimentary Maintenance	3 yr / 36,000 mi
Specs.Autos Exclusive Data
Engine Assembly Plant	Skövde, Sweden
Transmission Supplier	Aisin
Gear Ratios	–
Differential Type	Open
Cooling System Capacity	8.5 qts
Roof Load Capacity (lbs)	220
Safety Recall Count	–
Production Volume	–
Units Sold in USA	–

Consumer Insights & Market Appeal

The 2001 Volvo S60 is regarded as a comfortable and safe entry-level luxury sedan, though it requires diligent maintenance to remain reliable. Prospective buyers should prioritize vehicles with documented service histories, specifically checking for timing belt replacements, which are critical for the longevity of the five-cylinder engine. Common issues often involve the electronic throttle module (ETM), suspension bushings, and the PCV system, which can become clogged and cause oil leaks. While not as agile as its rear-wheel-drive competitors, the S60 offers a unique blend of Scandinavian design and highway composure that remains appealing for budget-conscious buyers seeking a distinctive, well-built daily driver.