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1999 Volvo S80 Overview, Reviews, Ratings & Specs

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Cathleen V | September 28, 2025
The 1999 Volvo S80 marked a significant departure for the brand, introducing an entirely new platform as the flagship four-door luxury sedan. Replacing the venerable 960/S90, this first-generation S80 (1999-2006 in the US) offered a modern, curvilinear design. Key trims included the naturally aspirated S80 2.9 and the potent S80 T6, powered by a twin-turbo inline-six. New pricing typically ranged from $35,000 to over $40,000. It stood out for its pioneering safety features, supremely comfortable interior, and distinctive Scandinavian elegance, making luxury accessible with a focus on occupant protection.
The Good

The 1999 S80 offers compelling advantages: exceptional comfort with supportive seats and a smooth ride, legendary Volvo safety thanks to advanced features like SIPS and WHIPS, and a spacious, elegant Scandinavian design that appeals to emotional buyers. Practical buyers appreciate its robust structure and incredible used market value, providing luxury at a bargain. The T6 offers strong performance, while both models boast respectable highway efficiency for their size.

The Bad

Known weaknesses for the 1999 Volvo S80 include notorious transmission issues, especially in the T6 model. Electrical gremlins often stem from the Central Electronic Module (CEM) or Electronic Throttle Module (ETM). Suspension components wear, and engine oil leaks are common. Repairs can be costly due to specialized parts and labor, making careful pre-purchase inspection crucial.

1999 Volvo S80: Quick Overview

  • Engine Options:
    - 2.9L (2922cc) B6304S naturally aspirated Inline 6-cylinder
    - 2.8L (2783cc) B6284T Twin-Turbocharged Inline 6-cylinder (T6 model)

  • Horsepower:
    - 2.9L I6: Approximately 201 hp @ 6000 rpm
    - 2.8L Twin-Turbo I6 (T6): Approximately 268 hp @ 5400 rpm

  • Fuel Economy (EPA estimates):
    - 2.9L I6: Around 19 MPG city / 28 MPG highway
    - 2.8L Twin-Turbo I6 (T6): Around 17 MPG city / 25 MPG highway (requires premium fuel)

  • 0-60 MPH Times:
    - 2.9L I6: Roughly 8.5 - 9.0 seconds
    - 2.8L Twin-Turbo I6 (T6): Roughly 7.0 - 7.5 seconds

  • Towing Capacity:
    - Generally not designed for heavy towing. If equipped with a factory hitch, capacity is typically around 2,000-2,500 lbs, but often discouraged or limited for luxury sedans.

  • Trim-Level Features (Key Standard & Optional):
    - S80 2.9: Standard features included a 4-speed automatic transmission, leatherette or genuine leather upholstery, power-adjustable front seats, dual-zone automatic climate control, a premium audio system with CD player and cassette, power windows/locks/mirrors, cruise control, remote keyless entry, Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), and Traction Control System (TRACS). Extensive safety equipment such as front airbags, Side Impact Protection System (SIPS) with side-impact airbags, and the Whiplash Protection System (WHIPS) was standard.
    - S80 T6: Built upon the 2.9's features, the T6 added the more powerful twin-turbo engine, a heavy-duty 4-speed automatic transmission, and often came with larger alloy wheels, a more performance-oriented suspension, and sometimes additional interior luxuries like wood trim or a power sunroof as standard or readily available options. Optional features for both trims included heated seats, a premium Dynaudio sound system, integrated car phone, and early versions of a navigation system.

1999 Volvo S80 Specifications

Vehicle Information
Year 1999
Make Volvo
Model S80
Trim -
Style -
Type Sedan
Category Compact Car
Manufacturing Details
Made In Sweden
Manufacturing City TORSLANDA
Dimensions
Doors 4-Door
Curb Weight -
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating -
Overall Height -
Overall Length -
Overall Width -
Wheelbase Length -
Standard Seating -
Engine & Performance
Engine B6304S
Engine Size 2.9L
Engine Cylinders 6
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 -

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Analysis

What Problems Does the 1999 Volvo S80 Have?

The 1999 Volvo S80, while a comfortable and safe car, is known for several recurring problems that prospective owners should be aware of. The most infamous issue, particularly with the T6 model, is the propensity for the GM-sourced 4T65-E 4-speed automatic transmission to fail prematurely. Symptoms include harsh shifts, slipping, or complete failure, often requiring expensive replacement or rebuilds. While less prevalent, the 2.9L model's transmission can also experience issues over time.

Another significant area of concern involves the vehicle's electronics. The Central Electronic Module (CEM) is a frequent culprit, leading to various electrical gremlins such as intermittent gauge operation, erratic wiper behavior, or non-starting conditions. Similarly, the Electronic Throttle Module (ETM) is known to fail, causing the engine to enter "limp home" mode, rough idling, or stalling. Volvo issued a warranty extension for the ETM, but many 1999 models may be outside that window.

Engine-related problems include common oil leaks from the valve cover gaskets and issues with the PCV (Positive Crankcase Ventilation) system, which can clog and lead to further leaks and internal engine pressure. Turbocharger problems, such as oil leaks or wastegate issues, are specific to the T6 model.

Suspension components, including control arm bushings, tie rod ends, and strut mounts, are typical wear items that require replacement as the car ages, leading to clunking noises and compromised handling. ABS module failure is also common, triggering warning lights for ABS and TRACS.

Regarding recalls, for the 1999 S80, official records show a few campaigns, including one for potential rear seat belt buckle failure, another for a possible fuel leak due to improper routing, and some related to airbag components. It is always recommended to check the NHTSA website using the specific VIN for any outstanding recalls. Long-term reliability is heavily dependent on diligent and proactive maintenance; otherwise, these issues can lead to substantial repair costs.

How long will the 1999 Volvo S80 last?

With meticulous maintenance, including timely fluid changes, addressing minor issues before they escalate, and using quality parts, a 1999 Volvo S80 can reliably serve its owners for 150,000 to 200,000 miles or more, often spanning 15-20+ years. The core engine blocks (especially the naturally aspirated 2.9L) and robust body structures are generally durable.

However, long-term durability is severely tested by the common weaknesses: the automatic transmission (particularly the T6's), the Electronic Throttle Module (ETM), Central Electronic Module (CEM), and the air conditioning system's evaporator, which often fails. These components, when failing, represent significant financial outlays. Suspension components like bushings and struts also require replacement over time. Without a dedicated maintenance regimen, these cars can become money pits, often retired earlier than their potential due to the cost of major repairs outweighing their market value.

What Technology & Safety Features are Included?

For its era, the 1999 Volvo S80 was quite well-equipped, emphasizing comfort and pioneering safety. Built-in tech included a standard trip computer, power everything (windows, locks, mirrors), and dual-zone automatic climate control for passenger comfort. Entertainment featured a standard CD player and cassette deck, often paired with a respectable multi-speaker audio system. Premium audio options, such as those from Dynaudio or upgraded SC-series radios, were available, offering superior sound quality. An integrated car phone was a common optional feature, reflecting the technology of the late '90s, as were rudimentary, early navigation systems, though these were rare and basic compared to modern systems.

Driver-assistance features, while not as advanced as today's systems, were cutting-edge for 1999. Standard inclusions were a four-channel Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) and a Traction Control System (TRACS) to prevent wheel spin. Later in the first generation, Stability and Traction Control (STC) became available, providing more comprehensive stability management.

Safety, however, was where Volvo truly excelled and the S80 showcased their commitment. Standard features included dual front airbags, along with Volvo's innovative Side Impact Protection System (SIPS), which incorporated side-impact airbags for torso protection. Crucially, the S80 also introduced Inflatable Curtains (IC), providing head protection for front and rear outboard passengers during side impacts. Another groundbreaking feature was the Whiplash Protection System (WHIPS) integrated into the front seats, designed to reduce whiplash injuries in rear-end collisions. Three-point seatbelts for all five occupants and a rigid safety cage further enhanced occupant protection.

In terms of crash-test ratings, the first-generation Volvo S80 generally performed exceptionally well for its time. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) gave it "Good" ratings in its moderate overlap frontal crash test. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) typically awarded the S80 high ratings, often 5 stars, for front and side impact protection, solidifying its reputation as one of the safest vehicles on the road in its class.

What Colors Options are Available?

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1999 Volvo S80 Prices and Market Value

When new in 1999, the Volvo S80 2.9 carried an MSRP roughly between $35,000 and $38,000, while the more powerful S80 T6 could command $40,000 to $43,000, depending on options. Fast forward to today, and the used market prices reflect extreme depreciation. A well-maintained, lower-mileage example might fetch $3,000 to $6,000, but average condition cars typically sell for $1,000 to $3,000. High-mileage examples with known issues can be found for under $1,000.

Depreciation has been massive, typical for a luxury sedan of this age. Factors severely affecting resale value include age, mileage, the high cost of potential repairs (especially for the transmission and electronic modules), and the availability of parts. Comprehensive maintenance records and proof that major issues have been addressed can significantly boost a car's value, but overall, it remains a "bargain basement" luxury car due to its high long-term ownership risk.

1999 Volvo S80 Cost of Ownership

Owning a 1999 Volvo S80 is generally not economical. While initial purchase prices are extremely low, long-term costs can accumulate rapidly. Insurance rates are typically reasonable due to its age and low market value. Fuel economy is mediocre for a sedan, especially the T6 which requires premium fuel. Maintenance can be expensive, as specialized parts and European labor rates are higher than for many domestic or Japanese vehicles. Major repairs like transmission replacement, ETM, CEM, or AC evaporator failures can cost thousands, often exceeding the car's market value. This vehicle is costly to own unless you possess strong DIY mechanical skills and can source parts affordably.

1999 Volvo S80 Fuel Efficiency

Fuel Type Gasoline
Fuel Capacity -
City Mileage -
Highway Mileage -

1999 Volvo S80 Safety Rating

NHTSA
Overall Rating Not Tested
Overall Frontal Star Rating Not Tested
Side Overall Star Rating Not Tested
Overall Rollover Star Rating Not Tested
Combined Front Seat Rating Not Tested
Combined Rear Seat Rating Not Tested
Overall Frontal Star Rating Not Tested
Frontal Barrier Star Ratings Not Tested
Side Barrier Star Ratings Not Tested
Rollover Resistance Star Rating Not Tested

1999 Volvo S80 Recalls & Defects

Engine and Engine Cooling:cooling System:fan
Recall date 2002-04-07
Recall no. 02v096000
Source NHTSA
Summary ON Some Passenger Vehicles, Certain Electric Cooling Fans Could BE Inadequate IN A HOT Climate. Under Certain Circumstances, Excessive Heat Could BE Generated.
Consequence Should This Occur, THE Engine Cooling FAN Components Could Overheat and Cause THE Melting OF Electrical Connections and Adjacent Components, Increasing THE Likelihood OF A Fire.
Remedy Dealers Will Replace THE Engine Cooling Fan. Owner Notification Began April 1, 2002. Owners WHO Take Their Vehicles TO AN Authorized Dealer ON AN Agreed Upon Service Date and DO NOT Receive THE Free Remedy Within A Reasonable Time Should Contact Volvo AT 1-800-458-1552.
Notes Customers CAN Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Auto Safety Hotline AT 1-888-Dash-2-dot (1-888-327-4236).
Suspension:front:control Arm:upper Ball Joint
Recall date 2000-08-24
Recall no. 00v238000
Source NHTSA
Summary Vehicle Description: Passenger Vehicles. Over Time, THE Ball Joint Between THE Front Wheel King PIN and THE Suspension Link Arm, CAN Experience Increased Looseness.
Consequence This Condition Could Affect THE Ball Joint's Durability and Performance.
Remedy Dealers Will Replace Both Front Ball Joints.
Notes Volvo Recall NO. 99.owner Notification Began September 18, 2000. Owners WHO Take Their Vehicles TO AN Authorized Dealer ON AN Agreed Upon Service Date and DO NOT Receive THE Free Remedy Within A Reasonable Time Should Contact Volvo AT 1-800-458-1552.also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Auto Safety Hotline AT 1-888-dash-2-dot (1-888-327-4236).
Vehicle Speed Control
Recall date 2006-11-15
Recall no. 06v441000
Source NHTSA
Summary ON Certain Passenger Vehicles, A Combination OF Throttle Positioning Sensor Irregularities, A Dirty Throttle Housing, And/Or Inefficient Software Calibration MAY Cause A Warning Lamp TO Light and THE Subsequent Onset OF Limp Home Modes.
Consequence This Resulted IN A High Number OF Vehicles Going Into THE Limp Home Mode Without Need.
Remedy Dealers Will Install THE Current Software Upgrade Onto THE Involved Vehicles. THE Recall Began ON December 29, 2006. Owners MAY Contact Volvo AT 1-800-458-1552.
Notes Volvo Recall NO. R155. Customers MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Http://Www.safercar.gov.
Engine and Engine Cooling:cooling System:fan
Recall date 2004-09-13
Recall no. 04v451000
Source NHTSA
Summary ON Certain Passenger and Sport Utility Vehicles, Under Certain Operating Conditions, Some Electric Cooling Fans MAY Overheat Potentially Causing Heat Damage And, IN Rare Instances, A Fire IN THE Engine Compartment.
Consequence A Fire IN THE Engine Compartment Could Occur.
Remedy Dealers Will Replace THE Cooling Fan. THE Recall Began ON November 29, 2004. Customers Should Contact Volvo Cars AT 1-800-458-1552.
Notes Volvo Recall NO. 141.customers CAN Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Auto Safety Hotline AT 1-888-Dash-2-dot (1-888-327-4236).
Service Brakes, Hydraulic:foundation Components:master Cylinder
Recall date 2007-03-29
Recall no. 07e023000
Source NHTSA
Summary Certain Cardone Master Cylinders With Part Numbers 10-2925, 10-2987, 10-2987mza, 10-3083, 11-3015, 11-3042, 11-3044, 11-3045, 11-3047, 11-3064, and 11-3156, and With Date Codes Lower Than Dca7078 Sold AS Replacement Equipment FOR USE ON THE Vehicles Listed Above. THE Seal ON Master Cylinder CAN Fail and Leak Brake Fluid.
Consequence Loss OF Brake Fluid CAN Result IN Poor Braking Performance, Possibly Resulting IN A Vehicle Crash.
Remedy Cardone Will Notify Owners and Offer TO Repurchase ANY Defective Master Cylinders. THE Recall Began During April 2007. Owners CAN Contact Cardone AT 1-800-777-4780.
Notes This Recall Only Pertains TO Aftermarket Cardone Master Cylinders and HAS NO Relation TO ANY Original Equipment Installed ON THE Vehicles Listed Above.customers MAY Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty: 1-800-424-9153); or GO TO Http://Www.safercar.gov.

1999 Volvo S80 Insurance

Insurance for a 1999 Volvo S80 is moderately priced, reflecting its status as a Sedan with strong safety ratings and
reasonable repair costs.

How Does the 1999 Volvo S80 Compare to Other Sedan?

The 1999 Volvo S80 competed with established luxury sedans like the BMW 5 Series (E39), Mercedes-Benz E-Class (W210), and Audi A6 (C5), as well as its Swedish contemporary, the Saab 9-5.

In performance, the S80 T6, with its 268 hp twin-turbo I6, offered comparable straight-line acceleration to a BMW 530i or Mercedes E320, and even challenged some V8s. However, the E39 BMW 5 Series was generally regarded as superior in driving dynamics, offering a more engaging and sporting ride, whereas the S80 prioritized comfort and a softer suspension tune. The base S80 2.9 performed on par with entry-level rivals.

Regarding features, all these European luxury sedans boasted high levels of comfort and technology for the late '90s, including leather upholstery, automatic climate control, and advanced audio systems. The Volvo S80 truly stood out in safety, often being a pioneer with features like SIPS, WHIPS, and Inflatable Curtains, which were not always standard or as advanced in its rivals at the time.

Reliability is a mixed bag across the class, but the S80 T6's notorious transmission issues are a significant weakness that can overshadow any advantages. While BMW E39s had cooling system and electrical issues, and Mercedes W210s faced rust concerns and sometimes electrical gremlins, the S80's ETM and CEM failures, alongside the T6 transmission, presented arguably more catastrophic and expensive common problems. The 2.9L S80 is generally considered more reliable than the T6, but still susceptible to ETM/CEM failures.

In terms of price on the used market, all these 25-year-old luxury sedans have depreciated massively. The S80, particularly the T6, often represents one of the cheapest entry points into a full-size European luxury car due to its perceived higher long-term risk and repair costs.

Alternatives: For superior driving dynamics and potentially better overall long-term reliability (if well-maintained), a BMW E39 528i or 530i might be a better choice. If ultimate reliability and lower running costs are paramount, but with some sacrifice of "European feel," a Lexus ES or Toyota Avalon from the same era would be far more economical and dependable. For a similar quirky, comfortable, and safe (but still potentially complex) Swedish alternative, a Saab 9-5 could be considered, especially if you're a DIY enthusiast.

Final Verdict: Is the 1999 Volvo S80 a Good Sedan?

The 1999 Volvo S80 is ideal for a very specific type of buyer: someone seeking an extremely affordable, comfortable, and exceptionally safe luxury sedan with understated Scandinavian style. It's perfect for a buyer with strong DIY mechanical skills, access to an affordable independent Volvo specialist, or someone looking for a secondary vehicle where reliability isn't the sole priority.

Is it worth buying? Only under very specific conditions. It should be purchased used, at an absolute bargain price (preferably under $2,000). A detailed pre-purchase inspection by a Volvo expert is crucial. Opting for the 2.9L non-turbo model is generally a safer bet due to fewer notorious transmission issues compared to the T6. A car with documented recent replacement of key problematic components (transmission, ETM, CEM, AC evaporator) would be a significant advantage. Buyers must factor in a substantial "repair fund" beyond the purchase price, as unexpected major repairs are a common occurrence. For those prepared for the challenges, it offers a lot of luxury and safety for very little money.

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Cathleen V

Cathleen is an exceptional freelance writer covering hot topics in the automotive world from a gearhead's perspective. Her articles delve into various aspects of automotive technology and history, offering readers detailed insights into engine performance, reliability, and maintenance. Through her engaging and informative writing, Cathleen provides valuable information to automotive enthusiasts and consumers alike, helping them make informed decisions about vehicle maintenance and purchases.