The better of two worlds
A popular phenomenon in Europe and elsewhere in the World, the coupe-convertible (C+C) vehicles are only now slowly making their way to North America. To give you an idea, all of the following cars have an available C+C version: Ford Focus, Nissan Micra and the Renault Megane to name a few. The goal of these cars is quite simple: It is designed to offer a perfect compromise, if any at all, between summer cruising and winter comfort.
Using the excellent C1 platform, shared with the Volvo S40 and Mazda3, the C70 is the creation of John Kinsley. Although most people may not know who Mr Kinsley is, many will recognize the name Pininfarina. This coachbuilder is famous for putting together some of the most famous Ferraris (Testarossa, F40, Enzo) some Maseratis, Fiats and Peugeots.
No wonder it is beautiful
The C70 is absolutely gorgeous. Whether the top is up or down, the car's
proportions are nearly perfect. The overhangs, both front and back, are just the right size and complement the C70's flowing lines. Quite often, convertibles look as though they have a big butt because of the extra storage needed for the roof. Volvo's family traits abound; the handsome snub nose, the cat ear like taillights and broad front shoulders. The Volvo's wheels are also attractive and they masterfully complete the look. My tester included the optional Sport Package that is composed of the 18" MIRZAM wheels, bi-xenon headlamps and a power passenger seat to name a few items.
The retractable hard top is a marvel of modern technology. The three separate panels detach nearly simultaneously, pile themselves on top of each other and lower neatly into the boot. It is quite a show to watch. All that is required to drop the roof is a firm application of the brake pedal and pushing and holding the "top down" button. The whole operation takes 30 seconds to complete. As expected from Volvo and Pininfarina, every body panel is fitted with amazing precision.
Weight is the enemy
With a weight penalty of just over 325 kg over a standard S40 T5 FWD, the C70 is quick but not fast. Even though it sports the turbocharged 2.5L inline 5-cylinder, its 218 hp and 236 lb/ft of torque are quite taxed. Thankfully, my tester was equipped with the standard 6-speed manual gearbox. Through my 750 km test, I managed an enviable 11L per 100 km. Its slick and light shifting action made the drive all the more fun. What are not affected by weight are the excellent communicative steering and the strong responsive 4-wheel disc brakes.
Acceleration times are brisk but you cannot help but feel that the engine is fighting against the inertia and extra mass. Passing manoeuvres are done with ease as long as the transmission is in the right gear. The gas and brake pedal are extremely close to each other. So close in fact that with a pair of "dress" shoes, I could not flatly depress the throttle without hitting the brake.
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| Photo: Philippe Champoux |
Using the excellent C1 platform, shared with the Volvo S40 and Mazda3, the C70 is the creation of John Kinsley. Although most people may not know who Mr Kinsley is, many will recognize the name Pininfarina. This coachbuilder is famous for putting together some of the most famous Ferraris (Testarossa, F40, Enzo) some Maseratis, Fiats and Peugeots.
No wonder it is beautiful
The C70 is absolutely gorgeous. Whether the top is up or down, the car's
 |
| Photo: Philippe Champoux |
The retractable hard top is a marvel of modern technology. The three separate panels detach nearly simultaneously, pile themselves on top of each other and lower neatly into the boot. It is quite a show to watch. All that is required to drop the roof is a firm application of the brake pedal and pushing and holding the "top down" button. The whole operation takes 30 seconds to complete. As expected from Volvo and Pininfarina, every body panel is fitted with amazing precision.
Weight is the enemy
 |
| Photo: Philippe Champoux |
Acceleration times are brisk but you cannot help but feel that the engine is fighting against the inertia and extra mass. Passing manoeuvres are done with ease as long as the transmission is in the right gear. The gas and brake pedal are extremely close to each other. So close in fact that with a pair of "dress" shoes, I could not flatly depress the throttle without hitting the brake.