The Volvo C70 represented Volvo's entry into the premium compact convertible segment, aiming to blend Scandinavian design, safety, and performance with open-air motoring.
Competitive Analysis
Competitive Analysis:
Competed with established players like the BMW 3 Series Convertible, Audi A4 Cabriolet, Mercedes-Benz CLK Convertible, and Saab 9-3 Convertible.
Key Features
Key Features:
Retractable hardtop (on later models, though the 2004 likely featured a soft-top), Volvo's renowned safety features, comfortable interior, distinct styling.
Approximately 300-400 pages (estimated based on typical owner's manuals for this era)
Manual Type
Manual Type:
Owner's Manual
Language
Language:
English
Format
Format:
Printed Book
Manual Coverage
Systems Covered
Systems Covered:
Engine management, transmission operation, braking system, steering system, suspension, climate control, audio/infotainment, electrical system, interior/exterior lighting, safety systems (airbags, seatbelts), convertible top operation, security system
Procedures Included
Procedures Included:
Starting and driving, dashboard indicators and warning lights, climate control operation, audio system usage, convertible top operation and care, fuel and fluid checks, tire pressure monitoring, basic maintenance checks, emergency procedures (towing, jump-starting), cargo management, child seat installation
Technical Depth
Technical Depth:
Operator-level understanding of vehicle functions and basic maintenance. Focus on safe and correct operation, not detailed repair procedures.
Manual Specifications
File Format
File Format:
N/A (Printed)
Print Quality
Print Quality:
Standard OEM quality for owner's manuals of the era, typically clear text and diagrams.
Binding Type
Binding Type:
Perfect Bound or Stapled
Paper Type
Paper Type:
Standard paper stock, likely glossy or semi-gloss for pages with diagrams.
Engine Specifications
Primary Engine
Primary Engine:
2.4L Turbocharged Inline-5 (B5244T)
Performance
Horsepower:
197 hp @ 5000 rpm (approx.)
Torque:
210 lb-ft @ 1800 rpm (approx.)
Fuel System
Fuel System:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI), Turbocharged
Engine Codes
Engine Codes:
B5244T
Transmission
Standard
Standard Transmission:
5-speed Manual Geartronic (M56)
Optional
Optional Transmission:
5-speed Automatic Geartronic (AW55-50SN)
Features
Transmission Features:
Geartronic (manual shifting mode available on both manual and automatic transmissions)
Dimensions
Exterior
Length:
177.2 inches (4499 mm)
Width:
69.1 inches (1755 mm)
Height:
54.4 inches (1382 mm)
Wheelbase:
101.2 inches (2570 mm)
Weights
Curb Weight:
Approximately 3400-3600 lbs (1540-1630 kg) depending on configuration
Safety Features
Ratings
NHTSA Front Crash Rating:
5-Star (for driver and passenger in frontal crash, typical for Volvo of this era)
IIHS Front Offset Rating:
Good (typical for Volvo's safety focus)
Active Features
Active Safety Features:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Traction Control System (TCS), Electronic Stability Program (ESP) / Dynamic Stability Traction Control (DSTC)
Passive Features
Passive Safety Features:
Front and side airbags, whiplash protection system (WHIPS), Roll Over Protection System (ROPS), reinforced safety cage, three-point seatbelts with pre-tensioners
Auxiliary input (likely on later 2004 models or via adapter), no integrated Bluetooth or USB connectivity as standard.
Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change Interval:
Every 7,500 miles or 12 months, whichever comes first (or as per owner's manual recommendation based on driving conditions).
Major Service Interval:
Refer to manual for specific mileage intervals (e.g., 30,000 miles, 60,000 miles) for spark plugs, timing belt (if applicable to specific engine variant - typically belt-driven on naturally aspirated 2.4L, but check specifics), coolant, brake fluid.
Fluid Specifications
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 0W-30 Synthetic (Volvo Approved)
Coolant Type:
Volvo VCS (Volvo Coolant System) or equivalent G48 antifreeze (blue/green).
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
AW-1 or JWS 3309 (e.g., Mobil ATF 3309)
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 4
Known Issues
Known Issues:
Ignition coil failure, ABS module issues, fuel pump failure, minor electrical gremlins, convertible top hydraulic system leaks (on some models), oil leaks from valve cover gasket or oil pan.
Part Numbers
Air Filter Part Number:
Typically 30637027 (verify with VIN)
Oil Filter Part Number:
Typically 30735852 or 8642847 (verify with VIN)
Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Brand Heritage:
Volvo has a long-standing reputation for safety, innovation, and robust engineering, dating back to its founding in 1927.
Model Evolution
Model Evolution:
The C70 was introduced in 1997 as a coupe, and the convertible version (codenamed L58) arrived in 1998. The 2004 model represents the first generation of the C70 convertible, based on the P2 platform shared with the S60 and V70. A significant redesign with a retractable hardtop occurred for the 2006 model year.
Production
Production Years:
1998-2005 (First Generation Convertible)
Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Recognitions:
While specific awards for the 2004 C70 are not widely highlighted, Volvo models of this era consistently received praise for safety from organizations like IIHS and NHTSA.