2004 Volvo C70

In the second iteration of the C70, Volvo replaces the 2004 soft-top version with a three-piece hardtop model. The push of a button turns your sedan into a convertible in a measly 30 seconds. The model has also been slimmed down somewhat, shaving five inches of the previous model, but still allowing four adults plenty of seating room.

The front seats are well-designed and comfortable, and a handy button moves them forward to allow easy access to the rear area. Power seat controls come standard for the driver, and are optional for the front passenger seat. Clever space design gives each seat its own lockable storage area, and folding down a hatch in the rear seat allows longer objects – think skis – to be stored in the trunk while extending into the rear seating area.

A standard eight-speaker sound system can be upgraded to a 910-watt system offering Dynaudio speakers, rivaling some home-based sound systems. Both standard and optional systems offer a sound experience worthy of a luxury sedan.

Volvo has reinforced the A- and B- pillars and the doors and sills to compensate for the lack of stability in the roof. Dual-stage Side curtain-type airbags with protective knee bolsters come standard, and, in what Volvo claims is a unique feature, deflate slowly following a rollover. Side-impact airbags are also installed in the front area, and an electronic stability system, seat belt pretensioners, full seat restraints, padded head rests and antilock brakes come standard.

The C70 2.4 offers a turbocharged 2.4-liter inline-five-cylinder, generating 197 horsepower and 236 pounds-feet of torque, and comes with 5-speed automatic transmission only; the more-expensive Volvo C70 2.3 has a 2.3-liter engine offering 242 hp, and offers five-speed-automatic transmission or six-speed manual models. Standard on both 2006 Volvo C70's are traction control, antilock 4-wheel disc brakes, front side airbags, leather upholstery, and heated front seats.

Stylistically, the 2006 C70 is in a class of its own. Few if any other convertible models offer its combination of safety, power and overall good looks. Handling is on the stiff side but doesn't detract from the sports car experience, and with the top up the c70 becomes a luxury sedan. Those buyers looking for slightly peppier experience will want to test drive the C70 2.3 with the manual transmission. But the 2.4 model, automatic transmission only, still retains the feel of a sports car.