QuestionHello,
I'm thinking of buying a 1999 Volvo C70 convertible but I'm wondering how reliable they are. This one has 58,000 miles and looks in really nice condition, they are asking $12,600. I commute a long distance (100 miles round trip a day) and am wondering how reliable this car might be for me?
Thanks,
Kevin
AnswerKevin,
Volvo's are known for their safety, not SO much their relaibility. They are, however, better than most. Keep in mind that volvo is a foreign company, and that will take standard costs to repair and maintain higher than domestic or even (the larger) asian brands (call a local shop that works on volvos and see what a tune-up costs, that will give you an idea). Also, drive the car at a decent speed before you go any further with pricing (if you haven't done this already). Most convertibles have a pretty noisy experience at speed. Back to your main point, the car will be reliable... It is no honda or toyota, but would be much better than your average euro car (most european cars have had diminishing reliability over the years) and build quality should be better than most domestics (even though I am pretty sure GM or Ford owns volvo - I cant remember and it's not important). Just remember that WHEN it breaks... It will cost you... as for price, I suggest looking up the blue book if you haven't already (I can do it for you if you like) show whoever it is the price (or if you feel cunning, tell them that the blue book is lower than it really is & just dont show the real price) argue from there. If its a dealership asking 12,600... I'd argue for 11500 out the door or so... (just my opinion, they will say no... but be adamant and you should get close). To Close let me say that your choice isn't a bad car, but its not the BEST car (unless safety is a big issue), If you really want a convertible check out (similar prices used): 1999+ v6 mustang convert or v8 if gas doesn't matter. The little v6 is actually a good engine, build quality is par... an older corvette (~1994) is a good car minus the cheap interior (expensive to fix and own though)... Since you're going for luxury it seems.. you would be more inclined to look at: Lexus (toyota makes 'em, they would be more reliable), also check out the toyota solara, any and all honda/acuras... If you happen to like any of them, they would be the most reliable... (I am not an Import only guy, I drive a mustang GT actually, however In ALL of my experience, the hondas/toyotas are built far better and more reliable). Oh and if you don't care about the top being down, you will save gas and weight by not getting a "vert". If I can be of more assistance let me know, check out "consumerguide.com" and read the review on your car, look at avg repair costs, etc... you can learn a lot and it is a good website (also good for looking at alternatives).
OVERALL reliability of the c70 (with or without the turbo I5) is probably a 6 out of 10...
Hope this helps -
Rob
