2011 Volvo C70

The C in the C70 stands for convertible. The Volvo C70 boasts a fully automatic hardtop and a radical eye catching design that allowed it to rank 19 out of 21 in terms of Upscale Midsize Cars. This rating was the result of more than fifty reviews, test drives and specification analysis.

Performance & Features

The 2011 Volvo C70 is available in only 1 trim, the two doors Convertible automatic. C70 price starts at $39,500.00. For this price a consumer gets a front wheel automatic turbocharged Gas I5 engine that delivers 227 horsepower and 236 pounds of torque. This power is sent to the front wheel and managed by a five speed automatic transmission with manual shift control. Mileage is 2.5 miles per gallon in the city and 28 in the highway. Basically the C70 has less power and is front wheel as opposed to its competitors.

The C70 lacks the thrill and driving experience that most convertible users crave for. Most reviewers say it lacks a sports car feel and merely has ample response in terms of steering and braking, which for $39,500.00 is certainly not enough. However for those who prefer a quieter and a more stable ride then the C70 is the convertible that they should look at.

Exterior

The 2011 remake of the C70 sports a radical new look which is both sporty and refined. In most cases this look would rate higher but the problem lies in the competition that has raised the bar a lot higher than the Volvo can climb. However some Volvo enthusiast seem to dislike the design of the 2011 C70 and still prefer the more elegant lines of the earlier model.

Interior

Volvo’s signature “waterfall” dash styling which is contemporary, minimal is still present in this model. Dials are minimal and is intuitive in its design and use. Creature comforts for the driver and the front passenger is a definite plus but like all two door convertibles the backseat is not meant for regular use, especially for adult use. The front seats are orthopedic in design which assures proper back and rear support, especially for long drives.

Safety

While federal tests are not yet available the Insurance Institute of highway Safety hails the C70 with the highest score possible in front, side, rear, roof strength and safety. The standard Volvo safety package is still unrivaled in this respect. Full length side curtain airbags, automatic rollover protection bars that automatically come out when needed and a whiplash protection system for both front and rear occupants which Volvo boasts of exclusively offering and the standard anti brake, and other automated Volvo safety main stays that is the root of Volvo.

Reliability

The C70 received 7 out of 10 in terms of safety which is based on a three year trend. The standard Volvo warranty is again top of its class, specifically the four years or 50,000 miles comprehensive warranty and the five years roadside assistance.

If you want a convertible with a sleek interior and sporty exterior coupled with superior safety and level performance then the C70 is the car for you. However acceleration, cargo space and a sporty performance is your prime consideration then better look at the alternatives.

Competition

The Volvo is still a recognized contender in the hard top convertible market but this also means that the Volvo needs to improve a lot to catch up with the BMW 3-series (MSRP $46,450; 17 city / 26 hwy), Infiniti G37 (MSRP $45,750; 17 city / 25 hwy), Lexus IS C (MSRP $41,190; 19 city / 27 hwy). If the consumer is looking for Comfort and safety Volvo is their choice but if it is performance and sports that they crave then better look at the BMW and Infiniti.

Overall Rating
69 out of 100

What others say:

“Attractively restyled this year, the 2011 Volvo C70—a coupe that becomes a convertible—offers a strong overall package with a clean, pleasant interior.”Car Connection

“The 2011 models’ exterior styling has been revised to a look inspired by the Volvo XC60 SUV.”Consumer Guide

“The 2011 Volvo C70 boasts a retractable hardtop, a luxurious interior and a smooth ride, though its middling performance means some competitors will leave it behind.”Edmunds

Specifications

General Info
Vehicle Type: Convertible Base Price: $39,950.00
Fuel Tank Capacity: 15.9 gallons (60 liters) Miles Per Gallon: 18 city / 28 hwy
Dimensions
Length: 180.4 in. (458 cm) Width: 72.3 in. (183.6 cm)
Height: 55.1 in. (139.9 cm) Wheel Base: 103.9 in. (263.9 cm)
Curb Weight: 3837 lbs (1740 kg) Ground Clearance: 5.5 in (13.9 cm)
Luggage Capacity: 12.8 cu ft Maximum Seating: 4 people
Performance
Engine: 20-valve DOHC inline-5 Displacement: 2.5 liters
Horsepower: 227 HP Max RPM: 5000 RPM
Torque: 236 lb-ft @ 1500-5000 rpm Transmission: 5-Speed Geartronic
0-60 mph: 7.4 seconds Maximum Speed: 149 mph

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