• Summary

    4 out of 5 4.0

    What does this car say about you?

    That I like my smaller cars to be built properly, have a good specification and be reliable. Alloy wheels, spoiler and metallic paint give it a hint of sportiness despite the fact its a 1.6 Volvo.

    What do your friends / family / neighbours think of the car?

    They generally think its a smart little car, no complaints from passengers apart from my mum who complains the cars a little wobby around corners... Some people still think its a boring Volvo but for the price and age its hard to beat.

    Would you buy this car again and why?

    Yes it was fantasic value for money and I mostly like the way it looks, I just wish I could've had the Turbo or 2.0 in the same condition with the same mileage.

    What are you likely to buy next?

    A turbo Volvo of some description, if it wasn't going to be a Volvo - possibly a Honda Prelude.

  • Buying experience

    5 out of 5 5.0

    Type of dealer you bought from?

    Didn't buy from a dealer

    Did you buy this car new?

    No

    What price did you pay?

    £0

    When did you buy the car?

    October 2005

    Did you get a good deal and why?

    Is there any special reason why you bought this car?

    Needed a car with more refinement and power steering for commute to work. Car had a very low mileage.

    What was the dealer like?

  • Driving it

    3 out of 5 3.0

    What's it like to drive?

    Very relaxing and easy to drive, engine is adequate for car but doesn't like being driven hard. Handling can be a bit wobbly thanks to its relatively small wheelbase for size of body and a solid rear axle. Despite this is does seem to grip well and the brakes are good.

    What's it like to park?

    Front can be a little hard to judge sometimes as it does slope down quite a bit. Rear spoiler doesn't get in the way of rear visibility which is good.

  • Living with it

    5 out of 5 5.0

    Have you had any problems with the car?

    Has been trouble free apart from issues with the handbrake. Glovebox handle/catch broke which is pretty annoying. Despite original immaculate condition, rear arches are rusting on the inside edge regardless, have treated the worst rust - fingers crossed!

    What's most practical about your car?

    The boot is huge its as big as the boot in the Volvo 850 saloon and has better access. Plenty of room inside, rear legroom is alot better than in a Volvo V40 we once had as a courtesy car. Seats are comfortable.

    Favourite gadget, option or accessory?

    Headlamp wash/wipe, fairly pointless but I like it. Electric aerial is also pretty pointless but I'll enjoy it whilst it works! Aircon is nice but I'd have prefered a sunroof and heated seats which my car is sadly lacking!