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I have a 98 C70 coupe and it has been a great car. I bought it used and it is a summer car for me, so I only drive it about 6,000 miles a year. It has under 70,000 mile now. I bought it used with about 52,000 miles on it.
I had the rear side window seals replaced under recall. They don't leak at all anymore. I have not had any problems with the power windows, but then I don't and I tell everyone not to close the doors with the glass, use the metal door to push/pull. Frameless windows are a necessity for convertibles, but volvo didn't have a lot of experience with them for the C70.
My C70 is a T5 manual, and it runs fine. I had the timing belt replaced when I bought the car, as well as the serp. belt. I have yet to change the plugs, cpa and rotor, but have bought the parts from IPD - I've changed them on my 850 beater, so it's an easy DIY job.
I think the manual allows for the best control of rpms and therefore boost, but they are rare. When I found this one, I was able to get a really good deal on it. My car also has a special 2-tone beige interior that volvo put on the premier models, which improves the interior a bit. I have coral red metallic over two-tone beige, and it looks great.
I have not had any braking issues, either, but I don't auto-cross the car. It is a touring coupe, so I don't get on the brakes hard all the time. There is an upgrade kit available.
I would make sure the car has had the timing belt change or would do it asap after buying it for peace of mind. Look for a T5 manual for the most driver fun factor. The power seat had a TSB for a spring which pops off, I had that fixed too.
Volvos, like most Euro cars, require regular TLC to be enjoyable. If you want an appliance, buy a Toyota. C70s were largely kit built by TWR-Tom Walkinshaw Racing at a separate plant, so there are some build issues. The power seat is soooo sloow to allow rear seat access - easier with a conv. top down. The power train is same as the V70 T5, so not much difference there. I expect to get to 100,000 miles without much problems, since I do the PM as required. I know if neglect the car it will bite back at some point. Turbo engines are hotter so they are harder on hoses, wires, battery, anything in the engine bay, along with making it tighter to get to stuff. Hopefully, a C70 you're looking at has had regular oil changes too. Try to see the service records or buy from a volvo fan looking to upgrade. The resale value is horrible, so you should be able to find a deal. I would avoid the convertible even though it looks really good. Coupes have nicer lines and are rarer to see on the road as well.
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