Volvo C70 Convertible (99-05) - Review

Three engines for the convertible: 2.0T, 2.3 T5 and 2.4 T. All are good, even the entry-level 2.0T, because they're all turbocharged. Go for the 2.4 if you can, it's swift, responsive and capable of a sub-eight second 0-60mph time. For pure power go for the T5: 60 mph comes in just under seven seconds and it has a top speed of 155mph.

This is a car that's designed for civilised summer evening cruising, not for being thrown around at breakneck speeds. Bumpy ride at low speeds and on rough roads, but better on the motorway. Good steering, gearchange and brakes for car of this size. The car's chassis has problems handling the power. A lack of body rigidity means that the rear-view mirror and steering wheel may vibrate - especially when cornering quickly; the T5 feels twitchy at speed through corners. Traction control system is effective. Body control is good even near the limits with very confident roadholding, especially in all-wheel-drive mode.