Electronically controlled automatic transmission with sport mode.
📐 Dimensions
Exterior
Length:
187.4 inches (4760 mm)
Width:
69.7 inches (1770 mm)
Height:
55.9 inches (1420 mm)
Wheelbase:
104.5 inches (2654 mm)
Front Track:
60.2 inches (1529 mm)
Rear Track:
59.6 inches (1514 mm)
Weights
Curb Weight:
3180 - 3300 lbs (approx.)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
4300 - 4400 lbs (approx.)
Towing Capacity:
Not Recommended or Specified
🛡️ Safety Features
Ratings
NHTSA Front Impact Driver:
5 Stars (1998 Model Year)
NHTSA Front Impact Passenger:
5 Stars (1998 Model Year)
IIHS Frontal Offset:
Good (1998 Model Year)
Active Features
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Passive Features
Airbags:
Driver and front passenger airbags, optional side airbags.
Seat Belts:
3-point inertia-reel seat belts with pretensioners for front seats.
Structural Integrity:
Integrated crumple zones, reinforced safety cage.
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
Infotainment System:
Factory radio with cassette and CD player options, optional premium audio systems (e.g., Dynaudio).
Driver Assistance
Driver Assistance Features:
Cruise control, optional traction control (TRACS) on some models.
Connectivity
Connectivity:
Limited by era; typically integrated phone options (rare).
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change Interval:
Every 7,500 miles or 12 months, whichever comes first (synthetic oil recommended).
Timing Belt Replacement:
Every 70,000 - 100,000 miles or 7 years (refer to manual for specific engine).
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 30,000 miles (standard) or 60,000 miles (platinum/iridium).
Fluid Specifications
Engine Oil Specification:
API SJ, ACEA A2/A3, Viscosity SAE 0W-30 or 5W-30 (Volvo Approved Synthetic)
Coolant Specification:
Volvo Coolant VCS (Vehicle Coolant Specification) or equivalent OAT/HOAT coolant.
Brake Fluid Specification:
DOT 3 or DOT 4
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
AW-1 (for AW30-43) or JWS 3309 (for AW50-42)
Known Issues
Known Issues:
PCV system blockage, oil trap failures, coolant leaks (especially hose clamps), ABS sensor failures, catalytic converter issues, door seal leaks, power window regulator failures.
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Brand Heritage:
Volvo, founded in Sweden in 1927, known for its pioneering safety innovations.
Model Evolution
Model Evolution:
The S70 replaced the Volvo 850 sedan. It featured a significant redesign with a more aerodynamic exterior and updated interior compared to its predecessor.
Production
Production Years:
1996-2000
Manufacturing Locations:
Ghent, Belgium; Kalmar, Sweden; Torslanda, Sweden
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Recognitions:
Consistently ranked high for safety by IIHS and NHTSA during its production run.
Ratings
IIHS Ratings:
Recognized for good performance in frontal offset crash tests.