The Good
The 2003 Volvo C70 offers a blend of performance and comfort. Its turbocharged engine provides ample power. Volvo's reputation for safety and reliability appeals to practical buyers, while the C70's sleek design and open-air experience (convertible) provide emotional appeal. It's a comfortable cruiser, making it ideal for road trips. Good value on the used market as well.
The Bad
The 2003 Volvo C70, while generally reliable, has some potential weaknesses. Watch out for issues with the convertible top mechanism (if applicable), as repairs can be costly. Electrical problems, particularly with the climate control system and power windows, are also reported. Turbocharger issues are possible due to age and usage. Regular maintenance is critical.
2003 Volvo C70: Quick Overview
Here's a summary of the 2003 Volvo C70's key specifications:
- Engine Options:
- 2.3L Inline-5 Turbocharged (LPT - Low Pressure Turbo)
- Horsepower:
- Approximately 190-240 hp, depending on turbo configuration
- Fuel Economy:
- Estimated 19-21 MPG city / 26-29 MPG highway (varies with driving style and condition)
- 0-60 Times:
- Around 7.0-8.0 seconds, depending on the engine and transmission
- Towing Capacity:
- Not recommended or rated for towing
- Trim-Level Features:
- Base: Leather upholstery, power windows/locks/mirrors, cruise control, premium sound system, alloy wheels.
- LPT: Adds features like upgraded interior trim, and a more powerful engine.
- Transmission:
- 5-speed manual or 5-speed automatic
Note: Specific features could vary based on packages and options selected by the original owner.
2003 Volvo C70 Specifications
Vehicle Information
| Year | 2003 |
| Make | Volvo |
| Model | C70 |
| Trim | - |
| Style | - |
| Type | Convertible |
| Category | Compact Car |
Manufacturing Details
| Made In | Sweden |
| Manufacturing City | GHENT |
Dimensions
| Doors | 2-Door |
| Curb Weight | - |
| Gross Vehicle Weight Rating | - |
| Overall Height | - |
| Overall Length | - |
| Overall Width | - |
| Wheelbase Length | - |
| Standard Seating | - |
Engine & Performance
| Engine | B5234T3 |
| Engine Size | 2.4L |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 |
| Transmission | - |
| Transmission Type | Automatic |
| Transmission Speeds | - |
| Drivetrain | Front-Wheel Drive |
Additional Features
| Anti-Brake System | - |
| Steering Type | - |
Pricing
| Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) | - |
| Invoice Price | - |
| Delivery Charges | - |
Vehicle History Report
Specifications
History
Events
History Check
Check
Check
Check
Check
Listings
Recalls
Check
Analysis
What Problems Does the 2003 Volvo C70 Have?
Recalls for the 2003 C70 were issued for issues like potential fuel pump relay failure and brake light switch malfunctions. Checking the VIN with the NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) website is crucial to determine if any outstanding recalls apply to a specific vehicle.
Long-term reliability concerns include wear and tear on suspension components, potential corrosion in areas with harsh winters, and the degradation of rubber components (hoses, belts). Regular maintenance, including timely oil changes and addressing minor issues promptly, is essential to mitigate these concerns and extend the lifespan of the vehicle. It's also advisable to have a pre-purchase inspection performed by a qualified mechanic familiar with Volvo vehicles.
How long will the 2003 Volvo C70 last?
What Technology & Safety Features are Included?
Driver-assistance features were limited compared to modern vehicles, but it did have standard ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) and traction control (STC - Stability Traction Control).
Safety was a key focus for Volvo. Standard safety features included dual front airbags, side-impact airbags, and whiplash protection system (WHIPS) in the front seats. The C70 also featured a reinforced safety cage and crumple zones designed to protect occupants in the event of a collision.
Crash-test ratings from the NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) and IIHS (Insurance Institute for Highway Safety) were generally good for the C70, reflecting Volvo's commitment to safety. It's important to note that crash-test standards have evolved since 2003, so these ratings should be considered in the context of vehicles from that era. The C70 was designed with robust safety features for its time, contributing to its reputation as a safe vehicle.
What Colors Options are Available?
Exterior Colors
Interior Colors
2003 Volvo C70 Prices and Market Value
2003 Volvo C70 Cost of Ownership
2003 Volvo C70 Fuel Efficiency
2003 Volvo C70 Safety Rating
NHTSA
2003 Volvo C70 Insurance
reasonable repair costs.
How Does the 2003 Volvo C70 Compare to Other Convertible?
Alternatives to the 2003 Volvo C70 include:
- Saab 9-3 Convertible: Similar styling and turbocharged performance, but may have similar reliability concerns.
- BMW 3 Series Convertible (E46): Sportier handling and a more premium feel, but potentially higher maintenance costs.
- Audi A4 Convertible (B6): Refined interior and available quattro all-wheel drive, but can be more expensive to repair.
Ranks #2027 Sedan
| 1 | 2023 Toyota Camry | (5.0★) |
| 2 | 2023 Honda Accord | (0.0★) |
| 3 | 2023 Lexus ES | (0.0★) |
| 4 | 2024 Subaru Legacy | (5.0★) |
| 5 | 2022 Mazda MX-30 | (5.0★) |
| 6 | 2024 BMW M3 | (0.0★) |
| 7 | 2023 Ford Mustang | (5.0★) |
| 8 | 2023 Mercedes-Benz AMG GT | (0.0★) |
| 9 | 2023 Audi A3 | (0.0★) |
| 10 | 2023 Chevrolet Camaro | (5.0★) |
| 11 | 2023 Hyundai Elantra Hybrid | (0.0★) |
| 12 | 2023 Nissan Altima | (4.0★) |
| 2027 | 2003 Volvo C70 | (4.0★) |
Final Verdict: Is the 2003 Volvo C70 a Good Convertible?
cscott on January 12, 2018
Great fun and safe vehicle if you want a convert.This is my second C70, 1st one was a 2002 that I gave to my daughter, it was still going strong, and looked great too, at 176k miles, when it was side swiped by a truck in a parking lot.
Mac on June 2, 2013
Great carI would buy it again. It is one the best cars I have owned. My Volvo is the xc70 and has all wheel drive.
jimbo on June 25, 2007
Great All Year CarNice handing and performance. Pricey for a small car but it is worth it. Good ride, great sound system. stylish wheels and the safety of a Volvo in a convertible.
Pamela on May 23, 2007
The lemon I ownedI was enamored with this car's comfort, handling and style... until I owned it. One window cartridge after another went bad, the sunroof had problems, and other difficulties kept me at the Volvo service center more than I should have in a new car. To make it worse, Volvo never acknowledged it was a known problem with the windows. I finally gave up when the window just stopped operating - in the down position - just as I was about to drive it across country.
cscott on January 12, 2018
Great fun and safe vehicle if you want a convert.This is my second C70, 1st one was a 2002 that I gave to my daughter, it was still going strong, and looked great too, at 176k miles, when it was side swiped by a truck in a parking lot.
Mac on June 2, 2013
Great carI would buy it again. It is one the best cars I have owned. My Volvo is the xc70 and has all wheel drive.
jimbo on June 25, 2007
Great All Year CarNice handing and performance. Pricey for a small car but it is worth it. Good ride, great sound system. stylish wheels and the safety of a Volvo in a convertible.
Pamela on May 23, 2007
The lemon I ownedI was enamored with this car's comfort, handling and style... until I owned it. One window cartridge after another went bad, the sunroof had problems, and other difficulties kept me at the Volvo service center more than I should have in a new car. To make it worse, Volvo never acknowledged it was a known problem with the windows. I finally gave up when the window just stopped operating - in the down position - just as I was about to drive it across country.
cscott on January 12, 2018
Great fun and safe vehicle if you want a convert.This is my second C70, 1st one was a 2002 that I gave to my daughter, it was still going strong, and looked great too, at 176k miles, when it was side swiped by a truck in a parking lot.
Mac on June 2, 2013
Great carI would buy it again. It is one the best cars I have owned. My Volvo is the xc70 and has all wheel drive.
Drew B
Drew is a seasoned automotive expert and contributor to VinCheck.info. With nearly 15 years of experience as a former Porsche technician, he brings a wealth of hands-on knowledge to his writing. Born in North Carolina, a region renowned for its deep-rooted NASCAR culture, Drew developed a passion for cars early in life, often building and working on vehicles from a young age. At VINCheck, Drew leverages his extensive technical background to provide in-depth analyses of various vehicles. His articles often focus on engine performance, reliability, and maintenance insights, offering readers practical information grounded in real-world experience. Some of his notable contributions include reviews on the Mazda CX-5's longevity and detailed examinations of engine options for models like the 2011 Toyota Camry and Tacoma