Verdict
C
GT · Sweden · 1996-2013
Volvo C70
Volvo C70 — spec data and generation history.
Years
1996-2013
Generations
2
Segment
GT
Volvo's two-door GT — built across two distinct generations. Mk1 (1996–2005) was a pillarless coupe and soft-top convertible based on the 850 platform, designed by Peter Horbury. T5 turbo and the rare T-5 R variants made it a cult choice. Mk2 (2006–2013) was the retractable-hardtop convertible only — three-piece folding roof on the P1 platform. T5 turbo was the petrol staple, D5 diesel added later. Coupe gone after Mk1; cabriolet niche enough that it has aged well. Mk1 T-5 R is the cult halo — Whiteblock 5-cyl turbo soundtrack on a coupe.
What changed
Era-to-era deltas
Mk1 1996-2005 → Mk2 2006-2013
BHP -22 bhp (top)
Torque +0 Nm
0-62 mph +0.4 s
Top speed +0 mph
MPG +5 mpg
Generations
Click any generation for the full deep dive
1996-2005
Mk1
→
T-5 R (2.3 5-cyl turbo) — 244 bhp, 0-62 in 6.8s.
Verdict
C
BHP
244
0–60
6.8 s
Top
155 mph
MPG
20 mpg
Used
$1,500-$10,000
- + Pillarless coupe rare
- + Peter Horbury design
- − ETM throttle module
- − UK rust
2006-2013
Mk2
→
T5 (2.5 5-cyl turbo) — 222 bhp, 0-62 in 7.2s.
Verdict
C
BHP
222
0–60
7.2 s
Top
149 mph
MPG
24 mpg
Used
$2,500-$11,000
- + 3-piece retractable hardtop
- + Coupe-and-cabrio in one
- − Roof mechanism complex
- − Heavy at 1,700 kg
Known issues by generation
Common faults reported on each generation — useful when shopping the used market.
1996-2005 · Mk1
- ETM throttle module
- PCV breather oil leak
- Heater core failure
- UK rust on sills
2006-2013 · Mk2
- Hardtop roof mechanism
- Powershift DCT (later)
- Door card and seat foam wear
- 5-cyl turbo PCV
Rivals
Audi A5 Cabriolet · BMW 3 Series Convertible · Mercedes CLK · Saab 9-3 Convertible