Overview
The second-generation Volvo C70, produced between 2006 and 2013, represented a significant shift in the brand’s approach to open-top motoring. Unlike its predecessor, which was available as both a coupe and a convertible, this version utilized a three-piece retractable hardtop. This engineering choice allowed the vehicle to function as a secure, weather-resistant coupe while offering the versatility of a convertible at the touch of a button. Developed in collaboration with Pininfarina, the car was manufactured at the Pininfarina Sverige AB facility in Uddevalla, Sweden.
Built on the Volvo P1 platform, the C70 shared much of its mechanical architecture with the S40 sedan and V50 wagon. This foundation provided a stable, front-wheel-drive layout powered by a refined 2.5-liter turbocharged five-cylinder engine. The interior emphasized Scandinavian design principles, featuring a “floating” center stack and high-quality materials intended to compete with premium European rivals. By the 2010 model year, the C70 received a comprehensive facelift that updated the front fascia to align with the brand’s contemporary design language, characterized by sharper lines and a more aggressive stance.
Marketed as a luxury cruiser rather than a dedicated sports car, the C70 prioritized comfort, safety, and year-round usability. It included advanced safety features such as the Inflatable Curtain (IC) system, which was specifically adapted for a convertible to provide head protection in side-impact collisions. While production concluded in 2013, the C70 remains recognized for its unique combination of Swedish safety engineering and Italian-influenced styling, serving as a distinct entry in the mid-size luxury convertible segment of its era.
| Vehicle Overview | |
|---|---|
| Brand | Volvo |
| Model | C70 FWD |
| Model Year | 2010-2013 |
| Generation | 2nd Generation |
| Trim | T5 |
| Body Style | 2-Door Retractable Hardtop Convertible |
| Vehicle Segment | Compact Executive |
| Vehicle Class | Subcompact Cars |
| Market | USA |
| Platform | Volvo P1 |
| Assembly Plant | Uddevalla, Sweden |
| Country of Origin | Sweden |
| Production Start | 2006 |
| Production End | 2013 |
| VIN Identifier | – |
| Base MSRP | $39,950 |
| Destination Charge | $895 |
| Total MSRP | – |
| Powertrain | |
| Powertrain Type | Internal Combustion Engine |
| Engine Family | Volvo SI6 / Modular Engine |
| Engine Name | B5254T7 |
| Engine Code | – |
| Engine Configuration | Inline-5 |
| Displacement | 2.5 Liters |
| Bore x Stroke | 83.0 mm x 93.2 mm |
| Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 |
| Aspiration | Turbocharged |
| 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 Quarts |
| Oil Specification / Viscosity | 5W-30 |
| Horsepower | 227 hp @ 5,000 rpm |
| Torque | 236 lb-ft @ 1,500-5,000 rpm |
| Redline | 6,500 rpm |
| Drivetrain | Front-Wheel Drive |
| Transmission | Automatic (S5) |
| Final Drive Ratio | – |
| Axle Ratio | – |
| Fuel Economy | |
| Fuel Type | Regular Gasoline |
| Recommended Octane | 87 |
| EPA City MPG | 19 |
| EPA Highway MPG | 28 |
| EPA Combined MPG | 22 |
| Fuel Economy (L/100 km) | – |
| Fuel Tank Capacity (gal) | 15.9 |
| Estimated Driving Range | – |
| Annual Fuel Cost | – |
| CO₂ Emissions | – |
| Greenhouse Gas Score | – |
| Smog Rating | – |
| Performance | |
| 0-30 mph | – |
| 0-60 mph | 7.2 Seconds |
| 0-100 mph | – |
| Quarter Mile | – |
| Top Speed | 149 mph |
| Braking Distance (60-0 mph) | 128 ft |
| Lateral Acceleration | 0.82g |
| Power-to-Weight Ratio | – |
| Dimensions & Capacities | |
| Length (in) | 181.5 |
| Width (Without Mirrors) (in) | 72.3 |
| Width (With Mirrors) (in) | – |
| Height (in) | 55.1 |
| Wheelbase (in) | 103.9 |
| Front Track (in) | 61.0 |
| Rear Track (in) | 61.2 |
| Ground Clearance (in) | – |
| Curb Weight (lbs) | 3,750 |
| GVWR (lbs) | – |
| Towing Capacity (lbs) | – |
| Payload Capacity (lbs) | – |
| Passenger Volume (cu ft) | 84.0 |
| Cargo Volume (Behind Rear Seats) (cu ft) | 12.8 (Top Up) |
| Cargo Volume (Max) (cu ft) | 6.0 (Top Down) |
| Turning Circle | 35.4 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 | – |
| Side Impact | – |
| Headlights Rating | – |
| Front Crash Prevention | – |
| Technology & Connectivity | |
| Infotainment Display | – |
| Instrument Cluster | Analog |
| Apple CarPlay | No |
| Android Auto | No |
| Navigation System | Optional |
| Audio System | Dynaudio Premium Sound |
| Speaker Count | 12 |
| Wireless Charging | No |
| Wi-Fi Hotspot | No |
| OTA Updates | No |
| Digital Key | No |
| Warranty & Ownership | |
| Basic Warranty | 4 years / 50,000 miles |
| Powertrain Warranty | 4 years / 50,000 miles |
| Corrosion Warranty | 12 years / unlimited miles |
| Roadside Assistance | 4 years / unlimited miles |
| Complimentary Maintenance | 3 years / 36,000 miles |
| Specs.Autos Exclusive Data | |
| Engine Assembly Plant | Skövde, Sweden |
| Transmission Supplier | Aisin Warner |
| Gear Ratios | – |
| Differential Type | Open |
| Cooling System Capacity | – |
| Roof Load Capacity (lbs) | – |
| Safety Recall Count | – |
| Production Volume | – |
| Units Sold in USA | – |
Consumer Insights & Market Appeal
The Volvo C70 is widely regarded as a stylish, comfortable grand tourer that excels in highway cruising rather than aggressive cornering. Reliability is generally solid, though prospective buyers should pay close attention to the complex retractable hardtop mechanism, as hydraulic leaks or sensor failures can be costly to repair. The 2.5-liter five-cylinder engine is robust, but it requires diligent maintenance, particularly regarding timing belt intervals and PCV system health, which can cause oil leaks if neglected. In the used market, the C70 appeals to those seeking a safe, distinctive convertible that offers a more refined experience than many of its contemporaries. While it lacks the latest infotainment connectivity, its high-quality audio system and comfortable seating make it a compelling choice for enthusiasts looking for a reliable, year-round open-top vehicle.
