Positioning:
The Volvo V70 was positioned as a premium, safe, and practical station wagon, appealing to families and those seeking Scandinavian design and robust engineering.
Competitors:
Competed against models like the Audi A6 Avant, BMW 5 Series Touring, Mercedes-Benz E-Class Estate, and Saab 9000 Wagon.
Safety Focus:
Volvo's renowned emphasis on safety, with features like SIPS (Side Impact Protection System) and Whiplash Protection System (WHIPS) available.
Practicality:
Spacious interior and versatile cargo area, characteristic of Volvo's station wagon heritage.
Engine:
Comprehensive coverage of all engine variants, including diagnostics, repair, and overhaul.
Transmission:
Detailed information on both automatic and manual transmissions, including service, repair, and fluid specifications.
Brakes:
Coverage of hydraulic system, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), component replacement (pads, rotors, calipers), and bleeding procedures.
Electrical:
Extensive wiring schematics, troubleshooting guides for all electrical components, including lighting, ignition, and accessories.
Suspension Steering:
Procedures for front and rear suspension, steering system components, alignment specifications, and shock absorber replacement.
Body Chassis:
Information on body panel repair, structural components, door mechanisms, interior trim, and glass replacement.
Heating Ventilation Air Conditioning:
HVAC system diagnostics, refrigerant handling, component replacement (compressor, evaporator, heater core), and fan controls.
Fuel System:
Fuel pump operation, fuel injectors, fuel filter replacement, and emission control systems.
Maintenance:
Routine maintenance tasks such as oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug replacement, and fluid checks.
Diagnostics:
Systematic troubleshooting procedures for common and complex issues, including error code interpretations where applicable.
Repair:
Step-by-step repair instructions for virtually all mechanical and electrical components.
Troubleshooting Guides:
Dedicated sections for identifying and resolving specific operational problems.
Depth:
Covers basic owner maintenance to advanced mechanical and electrical repair procedures suitable for professional mechanics.
Detail Level:
Includes detailed part layouts, torque specifications, and specialized tool requirements.
Engine Code Options:
Typically offered with inline-5 cylinder engines (e.g., B5252S, B5234FS, B5234FT).
Displacement Options:
2.5L (2435cc) and 2.3L (2319cc) naturally aspirated and turbocharged variants.
Horsepower Range:
Approximately 140-250 hp depending on engine and turbocharging.
Torque Range:
Approximately 205-350 Nm depending on engine and turbocharging.
Injection Type:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)
Ignition System:
Distributorless Ignition System (DIS) on many variants.
Length:
Approx. 4725 mm (186.0 in)
Width:
Approx. 1770 mm (69.7 in)
Height:
Approx. 1425 mm (56.1 in)
Cargo Volume:
Approx. 472 liters (16.7 cu ft) behind rear seats, expandable with seats folded.
Curb Weight:
Approx. 1500-1650 kg (3300-3640 lbs) depending on configuration.
NHTSA Rating:
Specific NHTSA ratings for 1998 models may vary; however, Volvos of this era were generally highly regarded for safety.
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) on most models.
Traction Control:
Available on some higher-trim or AWD models.
Airbags:
Driver and front passenger airbags standard.
Side Impact Protection:
SIPS (Side Impact Protection System) with reinforced body structure and side airbags available on some models.
Whiplash Protection:
WHIPS (Whiplash Protection System) in front seats on select models.
Oil Change:
Typically every 7,500 miles (12,000 km) or 12 months, whichever comes first, using appropriate synthetic oil.
Timing Belt:
Crucial service item for most inline-5 engines, typically recommended at 60,000 - 100,000 miles (96,000 - 160,000 km) intervals. Consult manual for specific engine.
Engine Oil:
Refer to manual for specific API service classification and viscosity grade (e.g., 5W-30 or 10W-30 synthetic).
Transmission Fluid:
Automatic Transmission Fluid (ATF) Type J or equivalent for AW50-42LE. Manual gearbox oil type specified in manual.
Coolant:
Volvo Blue coolant or equivalent (ethylene glycol-based) with appropriate mix ratio.
Common Wear Items:
PCV (Positive Crankcase Ventilation) system clogging, rear suspension components (spring perches), front control arm bushings, mass air flow (MAF) sensor issues on some models.
Turbo Specific:
Turbocharger cooling system maintenance and oil line inspection for turbocharged models ('T').
Heritage:
Volvo has a long-standing reputation for safety, durability, and practical design, particularly in the station wagon segment.
Predecessor:
The V70 replaced the Volvo 850 Wagon, sharing its P80 platform.
Generation Notes:
The V70 (introduced in 1996/1997 as a successor to the 850) carried forward the modular P80 platform, which was developed jointly with TWR Group.
Production Location:
Primarily manufactured in Ghent, Belgium, and Kalmar, Sweden.
