V70 Mk2 vs. Mk3
Discussion
Still on the hunt for a family long distance cruiser. The big Volvo estate is tempting, after a quick search I notice that you can get 3rd generation V70's at very little more than a similar late (2005-2007) second gen model. The problem is that it is diufficult to find Mk2 models with decent milage on them, they allmost all have astronomical numbers on them.
The second generation does look a lot prettier, but I do read a lot of bad reviews on the automatic gearbox (its a must in the family). Besides the better looks, the second generation V70 also seems to have a more usable cargo area (lower floor and therefore taller space). The question for the V70 experienced folk here is if the third generation a more accomplished car is in terms of overall ride comfort, automatic gearbox reliability and therefore worth the negligable premium. Looking at the D5 engine.
Thank you
The second generation does look a lot prettier, but I do read a lot of bad reviews on the automatic gearbox (its a must in the family). Besides the better looks, the second generation V70 also seems to have a more usable cargo area (lower floor and therefore taller space). The question for the V70 experienced folk here is if the third generation a more accomplished car is in terms of overall ride comfort, automatic gearbox reliability and therefore worth the negligable premium. Looking at the D5 engine.
Thank you
Ending up selling my Phase 3 (2008 to current) because the Phase 2 (referring to the late 2004 - 2008 range with the better engines/boxes) was so much better eg better fuel economy, more of a solid feel, better thought out load area, great seats and well documented issues/repairs/parts availability.
The Phase 3 is a much more modern feeling and riding car with a nicer shape and interior plus feels lighter/modern. They are a great car overall but the fact that it liked to drink diesel like a petrol and ate 18" front tyres (fortuna rims) put me off.
Whatever you decide, ensure that you check over the suspension thoroughly.
The Phase 3 is a much more modern feeling and riding car with a nicer shape and interior plus feels lighter/modern. They are a great car overall but the fact that it liked to drink diesel like a petrol and ate 18" front tyres (fortuna rims) put me off.
Whatever you decide, ensure that you check over the suspension thoroughly.
The gearbox is nothing to worry about on the earlier V70 if you go for the 6-speed unit fitted from 2005 onwards.
It's the AW-F21 unit shared with a whole bunch of other cars, including the LR Freelander 2/Evoque, and a whole host of Vauxhalls and Fords.
I ran a 2006 S60 D5 with this box from 32k up to 210k when I sold it. Only issue I ever had with the car was a split charge air pipe, which was sorted for under £100. The gearbox was faultless.
It's the AW-F21 unit shared with a whole bunch of other cars, including the LR Freelander 2/Evoque, and a whole host of Vauxhalls and Fords.
I ran a 2006 S60 D5 with this box from 32k up to 210k when I sold it. Only issue I ever had with the car was a split charge air pipe, which was sorted for under £100. The gearbox was faultless.
T5R+- thanks for the input. Would you say that the 3rd generation is a much more comfortable car as far as ride comfort (suspension suppleness) goes? You also mentioned that the D5 in the gen 3 is a thirsty one (drinking as much as a petrol). Is the second gen D5 that much more economical in this case?
Also looking at the 2007 Outback 3,0R, test drove one the other day...an impressive machine, but very thirsty!
Thank you
Also looking at the 2007 Outback 3,0R, test drove one the other day...an impressive machine, but very thirsty!
Thank you
Phase 3 cars ride much better. Mine had 4C (allows different suspension settings via "electrickery") but even in standard setting the suspension was better than the Phase 2 cars.
The comment over fuel consumption may be a little unfair but in general the early Phase 3 cars were hitting high 30's and low 40's due to the EuIV engine compared with the older EuIII that would give an extra 8-10MPG around town.
There are a couple of good threads in the Volvo section of PH.
http://www.pistonheads.com/gassing/topic.asp?h=0&a...
http://www.pistonheads.com/gassing/topic.asp?h=0&a...
If you go for a Phase 2 car ensure that you are au fait with the difference between EuIII and EUIV.
The comment over fuel consumption may be a little unfair but in general the early Phase 3 cars were hitting high 30's and low 40's due to the EuIV engine compared with the older EuIII that would give an extra 8-10MPG around town.
There are a couple of good threads in the Volvo section of PH.
http://www.pistonheads.com/gassing/topic.asp?h=0&a...
http://www.pistonheads.com/gassing/topic.asp?h=0&a...
If you go for a Phase 2 car ensure that you are au fait with the difference between EuIII and EUIV.
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