First off if all goes well with my job, as it seems to be, I may be in the market for an '03 S40 next year. Couple of Q's, please give a your car a rating of 1-10, 10 being the best and an explaination if you feel like it! (eg. 1)=10! Truely amazing!) haha.<p>1)- <B> How well does the interior hold up? </B> Many cars are getting more plasticy and don't really look or feel good after a while, fit and finish seem bad. I know Volvo cars have better quality interiors than most imports (and domestics!), just want to know what you think, even if its a broken cup holder or creaking dash panel or a everything is perfect.<p>2)- <B>Ergonomics</B>, seats good on long trips? Instruments feel natural? I already know I hate the radio with a passion after one short spin but that isn't a concern - I'd give that thing about one week of life in my car! <IMG NAME="icon" SRC="http://********************/smile/emwink.gif" BORDER="0"> In general everything is "good" feeling? Possibly ones size plays a role in this area, I'm 5'10.<p>3) - I would mention <B>Exterior</B>, but we all now what a handsome car this is! Not really necessary! However mention any grips or pleasure from this area <IMG NAME="icon" SRC="http://********************/smile/emthup.gif" BORDER="0"> <p>4) - <B>Engine</B>. Power delivery, reliability, anything important to you in this are. Likes or dislikes. <p>5)- Lastly, and <I>bear</I> with me, if the automotive world represented the <B>animal kindom</B>, what kind of animal would your S40/V40 be and why? (I hope I get some responses on that!)<p><br>Thanks all, I'm lookin for a car that will be with me for a long time as many of you have to, thanks for the help! Hopefully this will be beneficial to all that reads it! <IMG NAME="icon" SRC="http://********************/smile/embeer.gif" BORDER="0">
To S40/V40 long term owners...Rate your car.
1 - 17 of 17 Posts
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Re: To S40/V40 long term owners...Rate your car. (Spearzy)
I rate my 2001 S40 an overall 10. I'll break it down below;<p><br>Interior 7.5; it's a great conservative interior, it's exactly what I wanted looks wise. The seats however could be lower, i'm 6' 1" and fit perfect but I feel like i'm driving a minivan sometimes, despite the fact it's lowered almost 2"! Assembly inside is great, but the plastic used on the door panels (where the window switches are) and center a/c vents creaks. WTF is up with that? Also who's dumb idea was it to put a cup holder right where it would obstruct radio operation. DUMB. Overall it's held up well and nothing has worn after 49K miles and trips all over the West Coast.<p>Ergonomics 6; seats are good, but could be better (and lower, see above)<p>Exterior 10+; <IMG SRC="http://www.s40concepts.net/frontpageimages/s40concepts_image5.jpg" BORDER="0"> Need I say more?<p>Engine 9; Bit underpowered I think but that's a personal opinion, it's a great engine, and has passed every test i've put it through.<p>Animal Kingdom? A Cougar <IMG SRC="http://www.s40concepts.net/aboutme/cougar3.jpg" BORDER="0"> <p><br>I had 160K miles on my 1986 Cougar and it never once let me down. My Volvo S40 reminds me of my Cougar, great performance and reliability, and takes very well to modifications! <IMG NAME="icon" SRC="http://********************/smile/emsmile.gif" BORDER="0"> <IMG NAME="icon" SRC="http://********************/smile/emthup.gif" BORDER="0"> <p>Oh and I sold my Cougar almost two years ago, and the kids I sold it too still have it, and it's running stronger than ever!<BR><BR>
[Modified by cs40racing, 9:30 PM 10-14-2002]
I rate my 2001 S40 an overall 10. I'll break it down below;<p><br>Interior 7.5; it's a great conservative interior, it's exactly what I wanted looks wise. The seats however could be lower, i'm 6' 1" and fit perfect but I feel like i'm driving a minivan sometimes, despite the fact it's lowered almost 2"! Assembly inside is great, but the plastic used on the door panels (where the window switches are) and center a/c vents creaks. WTF is up with that? Also who's dumb idea was it to put a cup holder right where it would obstruct radio operation. DUMB. Overall it's held up well and nothing has worn after 49K miles and trips all over the West Coast.<p>Ergonomics 6; seats are good, but could be better (and lower, see above)<p>Exterior 10+; <IMG SRC="http://www.s40concepts.net/frontpageimages/s40concepts_image5.jpg" BORDER="0"> Need I say more?<p>Engine 9; Bit underpowered I think but that's a personal opinion, it's a great engine, and has passed every test i've put it through.<p>Animal Kingdom? A Cougar <IMG SRC="http://www.s40concepts.net/aboutme/cougar3.jpg" BORDER="0"> <p><br>I had 160K miles on my 1986 Cougar and it never once let me down. My Volvo S40 reminds me of my Cougar, great performance and reliability, and takes very well to modifications! <IMG NAME="icon" SRC="http://********************/smile/emsmile.gif" BORDER="0"> <IMG NAME="icon" SRC="http://********************/smile/emthup.gif" BORDER="0"> <p>Oh and I sold my Cougar almost two years ago, and the kids I sold it too still have it, and it's running stronger than ever!<BR><BR>
[Modified by cs40racing, 9:30 PM 10-14-2002]
Re: To S40/V40 long term owners...Rate your car. (cs40racing)
Superb response! <IMG NAME="icon" SRC="http://********************/smile/emthup.gif" BORDER="0"> <IMG NAME="icon" SRC="http://********************/smile/star.gif" BORDER="0"> <IMG NAME="icon" SRC="http://********************/smile/star.gif" BORDER="0"> <IMG NAME="icon" SRC="http://********************/smile/star.gif" BORDER="0"> <IMG NAME="icon" SRC="http://********************/smile/star.gif" BORDER="0"> <IMG NAME="icon" SRC="http://********************/smile/star.gif" BORDER="0"> <p>Yes, I would give your S40 a perfect 10+ rating too!!!<br>Glad to hear even with some radical changes this car has the integrity you expect and appreciate! I'm liking this topic!!!<p>Cougar eh, I've ran into a couple of those at the bar! <IMG NAME="icon" SRC="http://********************/smile/embeer.gif" BORDER="0"> Hahaha, seriously, North America's coolest cat! Sounds good!<p>Not to get off topic but do Sparco seats fit? Those seats seem like a pretty low bucket style, sure would look the part in your car too! I bet there is an aftermarket seat guide or some rating on the web or car mags...<br><BR><BR>
[Modified by Spearzy, 9:50 PM 10-14-2002]
Superb response! <IMG NAME="icon" SRC="http://********************/smile/emthup.gif" BORDER="0"> <IMG NAME="icon" SRC="http://********************/smile/star.gif" BORDER="0"> <IMG NAME="icon" SRC="http://********************/smile/star.gif" BORDER="0"> <IMG NAME="icon" SRC="http://********************/smile/star.gif" BORDER="0"> <IMG NAME="icon" SRC="http://********************/smile/star.gif" BORDER="0"> <IMG NAME="icon" SRC="http://********************/smile/star.gif" BORDER="0"> <p>Yes, I would give your S40 a perfect 10+ rating too!!!<br>Glad to hear even with some radical changes this car has the integrity you expect and appreciate! I'm liking this topic!!!<p>Cougar eh, I've ran into a couple of those at the bar! <IMG NAME="icon" SRC="http://********************/smile/embeer.gif" BORDER="0"> Hahaha, seriously, North America's coolest cat! Sounds good!<p>Not to get off topic but do Sparco seats fit? Those seats seem like a pretty low bucket style, sure would look the part in your car too! I bet there is an aftermarket seat guide or some rating on the web or car mags...<br><BR><BR>
[Modified by Spearzy, 9:50 PM 10-14-2002]
Re: To S40/V40 long term owners...Rate your car. (Spearzy)
I'd say that I'd give it a 8, very satisfied overall<p>I have 60k miles on my car (2001 S40), so I've spent quite a bit of time with it. Went through the first set of brake pads within 20k miles of city driving, but I changed commutes and have over 40k miles on my current pads and they aren't more than 50% worn. Only other problem was that the climate control went out once, had it replaced under warranty.<p>Ergonomics - The preselects are what I hate most about the radio (single in-dash cd). Oh, and if you have a cup in the holder, you can't see the whole display. The power seat adjuster is also right next to your leg, so my seat tends to end up changing out of position a lot when entering/exit car. The car does have a good sense that things were designed with ergonomics in mind (as compared to all of the different rentals I drive while on business)<p>Looks - Paint has been holding up pretty well, I have one rock scratch on the hood but that's not bad.<p>Things I'd change - I'd change the tires fairly quickly, the car's handling improves dramatically with performance tires (I went with AVS's, which are good bang for the buck). I would mod the heck out of this car (coilovers, chip, exhaus1t, rims) if it had a manual tranny, but oh well, it does its purpose. I really would like zenons too.<p>Highly recommend the car overall.<p>
I'd say that I'd give it a 8, very satisfied overall<p>I have 60k miles on my car (2001 S40), so I've spent quite a bit of time with it. Went through the first set of brake pads within 20k miles of city driving, but I changed commutes and have over 40k miles on my current pads and they aren't more than 50% worn. Only other problem was that the climate control went out once, had it replaced under warranty.<p>Ergonomics - The preselects are what I hate most about the radio (single in-dash cd). Oh, and if you have a cup in the holder, you can't see the whole display. The power seat adjuster is also right next to your leg, so my seat tends to end up changing out of position a lot when entering/exit car. The car does have a good sense that things were designed with ergonomics in mind (as compared to all of the different rentals I drive while on business)<p>Looks - Paint has been holding up pretty well, I have one rock scratch on the hood but that's not bad.<p>Things I'd change - I'd change the tires fairly quickly, the car's handling improves dramatically with performance tires (I went with AVS's, which are good bang for the buck). I would mod the heck out of this car (coilovers, chip, exhaus1t, rims) if it had a manual tranny, but oh well, it does its purpose. I really would like zenons too.<p>Highly recommend the car overall.<p>
Re: To S40/V40 long term owners...Rate your car. (Spearzy)
2000 S40--54,000 miles Overseas delivery 12/99<br> <br>Overall this is the most enjoyable car in the past 50+ years of driving and vehicle ownership--second was my '82 Fiat X1/9.<p>For a turbo vehicle, the third one I have owned, the LPT on the S40 for my city driving is the greatest for the dart and dance encounters.<p>The interior is favored over the updates in the 2001+ models, especially the radio controls--my favorite is the "PAUSE" button. No cracks etc,--did have to have my driver seat cover replaced under warranty due to the use I put my vehicle through on my field work.<p>Ergonomics are great--love the speed control button on the stalk end for the fine tuning on the highway without using the brake, or adjusting the accelerator constantly. Bad cup holder/blocking efforts. Great cubby hole for my gum in the dash in lieu of change.<p>Engine is a masterful fit for the four speed tranny in the 2000--have driven the 2001+ on warranty use, and don't personally like the five speed tranny even though it has a lower fifth OD gear ratio. Still get 27mpg overall to-date in the four speed for my tavels of 60%+ highway, but I do use a top 0il in my gasoline (Marvel Mystery Oil) which is the reason--great for the high heat turbo gases!<p>The EBD system in combination with the brake equipment, has saved my life on three very close calls of not my origin!<p>The S40 is a LION, demure in its stance and looks, but don't agitate it or attempt to incite it, as its bite can be very deceiving in response, especially its first leap off the line, or in its evasive or following maneuvers with the right combination of rubber and wheels(Bridgestone Potenza S-03 205/55/15 on 7" wheels) and the IPD sway bar and the strut tower brace in combination with the K & N filter.
2000 S40--54,000 miles Overseas delivery 12/99<br> <br>Overall this is the most enjoyable car in the past 50+ years of driving and vehicle ownership--second was my '82 Fiat X1/9.<p>For a turbo vehicle, the third one I have owned, the LPT on the S40 for my city driving is the greatest for the dart and dance encounters.<p>The interior is favored over the updates in the 2001+ models, especially the radio controls--my favorite is the "PAUSE" button. No cracks etc,--did have to have my driver seat cover replaced under warranty due to the use I put my vehicle through on my field work.<p>Ergonomics are great--love the speed control button on the stalk end for the fine tuning on the highway without using the brake, or adjusting the accelerator constantly. Bad cup holder/blocking efforts. Great cubby hole for my gum in the dash in lieu of change.<p>Engine is a masterful fit for the four speed tranny in the 2000--have driven the 2001+ on warranty use, and don't personally like the five speed tranny even though it has a lower fifth OD gear ratio. Still get 27mpg overall to-date in the four speed for my tavels of 60%+ highway, but I do use a top 0il in my gasoline (Marvel Mystery Oil) which is the reason--great for the high heat turbo gases!<p>The EBD system in combination with the brake equipment, has saved my life on three very close calls of not my origin!<p>The S40 is a LION, demure in its stance and looks, but don't agitate it or attempt to incite it, as its bite can be very deceiving in response, especially its first leap off the line, or in its evasive or following maneuvers with the right combination of rubber and wheels(Bridgestone Potenza S-03 205/55/15 on 7" wheels) and the IPD sway bar and the strut tower brace in combination with the K & N filter.
Re: To S40/V40 long term owners...Rate your car. (cs40racing)
Your new rims looks sweet!!! <IMG NAME="icon" SRC="http://********************/smile/emthup.gif" BORDER="0"> <IMG NAME="icon" SRC="http://********************/smile/emthup.gif" BORDER="0"> <IMG NAME="icon" SRC="http://********************/smile/star.gif" BORDER="0">
Your new rims looks sweet!!! <IMG NAME="icon" SRC="http://********************/smile/emthup.gif" BORDER="0"> <IMG NAME="icon" SRC="http://********************/smile/emthup.gif" BORDER="0"> <IMG NAME="icon" SRC="http://********************/smile/star.gif" BORDER="0">
Re: To S40/V40 long term owners...Rate your car. (Spearzy)
I've had my v40 for about a year and a half now (33,000 km). It has pefromed flawlessly to dtae, and has ben the best Volvo I have ever had (of course it is the first brand new volvo I have had).<p>I give it a 9.5 out of 10<p>Pefromance and handling are excellent (even without and mods), much better than any of the other volvo's I have driven (including my father's 1993 850glt and a 1999 s70 that I had as a loaner in july). The ride is also much better than any of those cars (there is a bit of road noise transmitted to the interior, but less than in previous volvos)<p>Comfort is good up front, though I am not sure the seats are quite as good as in my previous volvos, that said the 2003's seat have been redesigned so hopefully are even better). <p>Ergonomics are good (and yes I even like the stereo, much easier to turn a knob with gloives on in the winter than to puch a tiny button), I don't even mind the cupholder (though it is a pain to have to remove your beverage to insert a new CD), I don't like the looks of the cupholders in the 2002-2003's but they are probably more functional. The interior is holding up well to date with no annoying rattles. The quality of the plastics are good, I am not a big fan of the armrest ledge on the door thoug (I'd prefer a real armrest shape, your arm tends to slip off the shape that is there). Also the center counsole lid is a bit low. <br>Exterior is excellent, I wanted this car from the first time I saw one in Europe, and love the shape. The paint quailty is high, though you will get stone chips on the bumper and spoiler for the first little while, it does appear that these do appear with less frequency as the paint cures more.<p>Type of animal, I guess something like a cheeta, it has the abilty to blend in, but can deliver excellent performance on demand.<p>The main dislike is that there is no manual transmission available. The 5 speed auto is excellent (good smooth shifts, quick downshifts and good economy) but I miss the extra involement of the manual.<br>
I've had my v40 for about a year and a half now (33,000 km). It has pefromed flawlessly to dtae, and has ben the best Volvo I have ever had (of course it is the first brand new volvo I have had).<p>I give it a 9.5 out of 10<p>Pefromance and handling are excellent (even without and mods), much better than any of the other volvo's I have driven (including my father's 1993 850glt and a 1999 s70 that I had as a loaner in july). The ride is also much better than any of those cars (there is a bit of road noise transmitted to the interior, but less than in previous volvos)<p>Comfort is good up front, though I am not sure the seats are quite as good as in my previous volvos, that said the 2003's seat have been redesigned so hopefully are even better). <p>Ergonomics are good (and yes I even like the stereo, much easier to turn a knob with gloives on in the winter than to puch a tiny button), I don't even mind the cupholder (though it is a pain to have to remove your beverage to insert a new CD), I don't like the looks of the cupholders in the 2002-2003's but they are probably more functional. The interior is holding up well to date with no annoying rattles. The quality of the plastics are good, I am not a big fan of the armrest ledge on the door thoug (I'd prefer a real armrest shape, your arm tends to slip off the shape that is there). Also the center counsole lid is a bit low. <br>Exterior is excellent, I wanted this car from the first time I saw one in Europe, and love the shape. The paint quailty is high, though you will get stone chips on the bumper and spoiler for the first little while, it does appear that these do appear with less frequency as the paint cures more.<p>Type of animal, I guess something like a cheeta, it has the abilty to blend in, but can deliver excellent performance on demand.<p>The main dislike is that there is no manual transmission available. The 5 speed auto is excellent (good smooth shifts, quick downshifts and good economy) but I miss the extra involement of the manual.<br>
Re: To S40/V40 long term owners...Rate your car. (scott m)
Thanks guys!! Great reviews <IMG NAME="icon" SRC="http://********************/smile/emthup.gif" BORDER="0"> <p>I think this will be my next car <IMG NAME="icon" SRC="http://********************/smile/emlove.gif" BORDER="0"> <br>I suppose I could get used to the radio if I was accustomed to the knobs, maybe that would take some time. I agree, the only disapointment is no 5 speed manual tranny <IMG NAME="icon" SRC="http://********************/smile/emsad.gif" BORDER="0"> This car would be off the charts in fun factor with a 5 speed!! Hope someone at Volvo is listening! All in all this sounds like a truely rewarding car to own. I still can't believe this car was introduced in europe in '95! It looks very fresh from the first one produced to now.<br>This car seems to have a cat like presense to its owners, perhaps it is sleek and graceful with a fierce side, stealthy but capable of great burst of energy!! <IMG NAME="icon" SRC="http://********************/smile/emsmile.gif" BORDER="0"> Must be fun to throw around in the corners here and there <IMG NAME="icon" SRC="http://********************/smile/emwink.gif" BORDER="0"> <br>The interior seems to be pretty good with some areas that could use a little improvement, sounds like just a little personalization if needed to clear up all those areas, nothing drastic. <br>Keep the reviews comming please! Sounds like you guys are all on the same page <IMG NAME="icon" SRC="http://********************/smile/emcocktl.gif" BORDER="0"> Congrats to all you cool 40 series owners <IMG NAME="icon" SRC="http://********************/smile/emthup.gif" BORDER="0">
Thanks guys!! Great reviews <IMG NAME="icon" SRC="http://********************/smile/emthup.gif" BORDER="0"> <p>I think this will be my next car <IMG NAME="icon" SRC="http://********************/smile/emlove.gif" BORDER="0"> <br>I suppose I could get used to the radio if I was accustomed to the knobs, maybe that would take some time. I agree, the only disapointment is no 5 speed manual tranny <IMG NAME="icon" SRC="http://********************/smile/emsad.gif" BORDER="0"> This car would be off the charts in fun factor with a 5 speed!! Hope someone at Volvo is listening! All in all this sounds like a truely rewarding car to own. I still can't believe this car was introduced in europe in '95! It looks very fresh from the first one produced to now.<br>This car seems to have a cat like presense to its owners, perhaps it is sleek and graceful with a fierce side, stealthy but capable of great burst of energy!! <IMG NAME="icon" SRC="http://********************/smile/emsmile.gif" BORDER="0"> Must be fun to throw around in the corners here and there <IMG NAME="icon" SRC="http://********************/smile/emwink.gif" BORDER="0"> <br>The interior seems to be pretty good with some areas that could use a little improvement, sounds like just a little personalization if needed to clear up all those areas, nothing drastic. <br>Keep the reviews comming please! Sounds like you guys are all on the same page <IMG NAME="icon" SRC="http://********************/smile/emcocktl.gif" BORDER="0"> Congrats to all you cool 40 series owners <IMG NAME="icon" SRC="http://********************/smile/emthup.gif" BORDER="0">
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415 Posts
Re: To S40/V40 long term owners...Rate your car. (Spearzy)
If you don't think it can be fun I welcome you to ride along with me <IMG NAME="icon" SRC="http://********************/smile/emsmile.gif" BORDER="0"> <p>Also, the car was first released in 1996, not 1995
If you don't think it can be fun I welcome you to ride along with me <IMG NAME="icon" SRC="http://********************/smile/emsmile.gif" BORDER="0"> <p>Also, the car was first released in 1996, not 1995
Re: To S40/V40 long term owners...Rate your car. (cs40racing)
HAHA! I wasn't even suggesting the auto wasn't fun, I'm quite used to one and have some fun also <IMG NAME="icon" SRC="http://********************/smile/emwink.gif" BORDER="0"> I just think the stick version would be off the charts, and hey, if I'm in Dallas on business (HQ is there, well in Carrollton) I'll look you up!! I'm gonna hold you to that offer!!!!!!!!!!!! <IMG NAME="icon" SRC="http://********************/smile/emsmile.gif" BORDER="0"> <IMG NAME="icon" SRC="http://********************/smile/emsmile.gif" BORDER="0"> <IMG NAME="icon" SRC="http://********************/smile/emsmile.gif" BORDER="0"> <br>You couldn't peel the smile off my face with a hot iron riding in your touring car!! <IMG NAME="icon" SRC="http://********************/smile/emthup.gif" BORDER="0">
HAHA! I wasn't even suggesting the auto wasn't fun, I'm quite used to one and have some fun also <IMG NAME="icon" SRC="http://********************/smile/emwink.gif" BORDER="0"> I just think the stick version would be off the charts, and hey, if I'm in Dallas on business (HQ is there, well in Carrollton) I'll look you up!! I'm gonna hold you to that offer!!!!!!!!!!!! <IMG NAME="icon" SRC="http://********************/smile/emsmile.gif" BORDER="0"> <IMG NAME="icon" SRC="http://********************/smile/emsmile.gif" BORDER="0"> <IMG NAME="icon" SRC="http://********************/smile/emsmile.gif" BORDER="0"> <br>You couldn't peel the smile off my face with a hot iron riding in your touring car!! <IMG NAME="icon" SRC="http://********************/smile/emthup.gif" BORDER="0">
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Re: To S40/V40 long term owners...Rate your car. (Spearzy)
I'll have to get some Toyo's on the car quickly then!<p>If everything goes according to plan, the new turbo drops in December. <IMG NAME="icon" SRC="http://********************/smile/emsmile.gif" BORDER="0">
I'll have to get some Toyo's on the car quickly then!<p>If everything goes according to plan, the new turbo drops in December. <IMG NAME="icon" SRC="http://********************/smile/emsmile.gif" BORDER="0">
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39,263 Posts
Re: To S40/V40 long term owners...Rate your car. (cs40racing)
<BLOCKQUOTE>quote:<HR>Also, the car was first released in 1996, not 1995<HR></BLOCKQUOTE><p>Car was first released, In Europe, in <U>Fall 1995</U> (as a MY1996).<p>Yannis
<BLOCKQUOTE>quote:<HR>Also, the car was first released in 1996, not 1995<HR></BLOCKQUOTE><p>Car was first released, In Europe, in <U>Fall 1995</U> (as a MY1996).<p>Yannis
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Re: To S40/V40 long term owners...Rate your car. (GrecianVolvo)
sorry, i meant the first official model year was 1996. There is no 1995 S40.
sorry, i meant the first official model year was 1996. There is no 1995 S40.
Re: To S40/V40 long term owners...Rate your car. (cs40racing)
<BLOCKQUOTE>quote:<HR>If everything goes according to plan, the new turbo drops in December. <IMG NAME="icon" SRC="http://********************/smile/emsmile.gif" BORDER="0"> <HR></BLOCKQUOTE><p>I think a T3/T04B would fit nicely on that kick arse S40. <IMG NAME="icon" SRC="http://********************/smile/emwink.gif" BORDER="0">
<BLOCKQUOTE>quote:<HR>If everything goes according to plan, the new turbo drops in December. <IMG NAME="icon" SRC="http://********************/smile/emsmile.gif" BORDER="0"> <HR></BLOCKQUOTE><p>I think a T3/T04B would fit nicely on that kick arse S40. <IMG NAME="icon" SRC="http://********************/smile/emwink.gif" BORDER="0">
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530 Posts
Re: To S40/V40 long term owners...Rate your car. (Spearzy)
2000 S40 - 38K miles. Overall rating 9.5.<p>1) Interior is holding up very well. In the three years we have owned it we lived in two extremes - Boston and Phoenix. A few vibrations are noticed in the interior, and the light material shows some dirt, but still in excellent shape. Cup holders awkward. Arm rest a bit flimsy and seems weak.<p>2) Ergonomics - Out freakin' standing! Two cross country drives in this car (I'm also 5'10"). My father joined me on one of these trips (6'2", 210+ pounds) and he was amazed at the comfort as well. Controls fairly good, cuise control placement could be better. And you already found it - radio pretty much blows and ours only lasted a few months. <IMG NAME="icon" SRC="http://********************/smile/emwink.gif" BORDER="0"> <p>3) Exterior - sweet!<p>4) Engine - ample power except off the start (slight lag), especially when using A/C. Nice passing power, even at 80+ mph. Decent gas mileage. Brakes replaced at 30K miles - disappointing, but on the other hand, they will stop you on a dime.<p>5) Quarter-horse (quick, nimble)
2000 S40 - 38K miles. Overall rating 9.5.<p>1) Interior is holding up very well. In the three years we have owned it we lived in two extremes - Boston and Phoenix. A few vibrations are noticed in the interior, and the light material shows some dirt, but still in excellent shape. Cup holders awkward. Arm rest a bit flimsy and seems weak.<p>2) Ergonomics - Out freakin' standing! Two cross country drives in this car (I'm also 5'10"). My father joined me on one of these trips (6'2", 210+ pounds) and he was amazed at the comfort as well. Controls fairly good, cuise control placement could be better. And you already found it - radio pretty much blows and ours only lasted a few months. <IMG NAME="icon" SRC="http://********************/smile/emwink.gif" BORDER="0"> <p>3) Exterior - sweet!<p>4) Engine - ample power except off the start (slight lag), especially when using A/C. Nice passing power, even at 80+ mph. Decent gas mileage. Brakes replaced at 30K miles - disappointing, but on the other hand, they will stop you on a dime.<p>5) Quarter-horse (quick, nimble)
Re: To S40/V40 long term owners...Rate your car. (samulsoon_0503)
I'd give my 2002 S40 a 9, and I'll explain the one-point deduction. Overall, you've gotta love this car!! For reference, mine has 15K miles and is a daily driver in metro Boston, as well as for long road trips.<p>1) Interior is gorgeous. Leather is supple, styling looks classy, and I think it's ergonomically ideal. The only two problems? The stereo button placement takes a little getting used-to, and in my car, the driver's-side-door control panel rattles just a bit when you really crank the speakers. I guess the buttons aren't as solidly seated as they could be. But think about it...if I'm even mentioning stuff like this, you know it's a well-built machine.<p>2) Ergonomics - already dealt with the stereo, which is somewhat problematic. In general, however, this is the best-fitted car I've ever driven. I love the efficiency of design, too: it seems that Volvo made the accessory controls (signals, wipers, lights, cruise, etc.) both intuitive and minimal.<p>3) Exterior - I don't think a car can be any more classically beautiful than this. Sporty and handsome when it's stock, and truly mean-looking if you want to dress it up. In more practical terms, too, the paint is really high-quality. Mine has the black sapphire metallic w/ clearcoat, and it handles the rough and tumble Boston environment very well. I've watched lesser drivers parallel park ON my bumpers (ouch, I know...), but it still looks almost scratch-free after 8 months of similar abuse.<p>4) Engine/handling...Good but not ideal. This is where the car loses that one point. First, though the power delivery is very smooth, it's not as quickly available as I'd like. The suspension is also a little soft for my taste once it's broken in. Thankfully the s40 seems to be very receptive to upgrades in these areas.<p>5) Hmmm...I'd have to say, as an equestrian, it drives like a well bred horse. Pleasing to the eye, refined in manner, and capable of spirited response when well handled.
I'd give my 2002 S40 a 9, and I'll explain the one-point deduction. Overall, you've gotta love this car!! For reference, mine has 15K miles and is a daily driver in metro Boston, as well as for long road trips.<p>1) Interior is gorgeous. Leather is supple, styling looks classy, and I think it's ergonomically ideal. The only two problems? The stereo button placement takes a little getting used-to, and in my car, the driver's-side-door control panel rattles just a bit when you really crank the speakers. I guess the buttons aren't as solidly seated as they could be. But think about it...if I'm even mentioning stuff like this, you know it's a well-built machine.<p>2) Ergonomics - already dealt with the stereo, which is somewhat problematic. In general, however, this is the best-fitted car I've ever driven. I love the efficiency of design, too: it seems that Volvo made the accessory controls (signals, wipers, lights, cruise, etc.) both intuitive and minimal.<p>3) Exterior - I don't think a car can be any more classically beautiful than this. Sporty and handsome when it's stock, and truly mean-looking if you want to dress it up. In more practical terms, too, the paint is really high-quality. Mine has the black sapphire metallic w/ clearcoat, and it handles the rough and tumble Boston environment very well. I've watched lesser drivers parallel park ON my bumpers (ouch, I know...), but it still looks almost scratch-free after 8 months of similar abuse.<p>4) Engine/handling...Good but not ideal. This is where the car loses that one point. First, though the power delivery is very smooth, it's not as quickly available as I'd like. The suspension is also a little soft for my taste once it's broken in. Thankfully the s40 seems to be very receptive to upgrades in these areas.<p>5) Hmmm...I'd have to say, as an equestrian, it drives like a well bred horse. Pleasing to the eye, refined in manner, and capable of spirited response when well handled.
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Re: To S40/V40 long term owners...Rate your car. (Booch)
Hey I'll drop a line here, being a 3 hour S40 driver (got one for a loaner right now while my 855 is being serviced) I have the following impression comparing to my 855 GLE 10V<p>First thing I noticed was the front suspension, it is quite soft and bounces around alot, however could be because of 65 series snow tires on the loaner.<p>Second thing I noticed was that it has a LOT more power than my slow ass GLE, theres not much below 2500 rpm from a stop, but from there the thing zips to 100km/h in no time. Passing from 80-130km/h in 3rd gear is superb, however you have to build up the boost first before the power comes. When it comes there is plenty.<p>Third thing I noticed was the huge amount of wind noise, the a piller and the sun roof seems to be opened (they were closed.. of course) and create tons of wind noise above 110 km/h. Road noise is a bit loud but probably due to winter tires on the loaner. I would say my 855 with my custom sound insulation is quieter anyway even if the S40 had summer tires on it.<p>Also quite annoying is the vibration from the engine on idle, I thought my 855 vibrates... but this loaner I got it absolutely was a massage chair. btw it had 2500km on it only...<p>The car feels very light and agile, fun to drive, if not for the road noise and vibration and the very soft suspension it would have been near perfect.<p>Also the in the back headroom is extremely limited. Being 5'7" my hair touches the ceilling...<p>I love this car tho, I wouldn't take it over my 855 because it is too tight and noisy, but the engine, transmission are superb and the suspension is also quite a bit more comfortable.
Hey I'll drop a line here, being a 3 hour S40 driver (got one for a loaner right now while my 855 is being serviced) I have the following impression comparing to my 855 GLE 10V<p>First thing I noticed was the front suspension, it is quite soft and bounces around alot, however could be because of 65 series snow tires on the loaner.<p>Second thing I noticed was that it has a LOT more power than my slow ass GLE, theres not much below 2500 rpm from a stop, but from there the thing zips to 100km/h in no time. Passing from 80-130km/h in 3rd gear is superb, however you have to build up the boost first before the power comes. When it comes there is plenty.<p>Third thing I noticed was the huge amount of wind noise, the a piller and the sun roof seems to be opened (they were closed.. of course) and create tons of wind noise above 110 km/h. Road noise is a bit loud but probably due to winter tires on the loaner. I would say my 855 with my custom sound insulation is quieter anyway even if the S40 had summer tires on it.<p>Also quite annoying is the vibration from the engine on idle, I thought my 855 vibrates... but this loaner I got it absolutely was a massage chair. btw it had 2500km on it only...<p>The car feels very light and agile, fun to drive, if not for the road noise and vibration and the very soft suspension it would have been near perfect.<p>Also the in the back headroom is extremely limited. Being 5'7" my hair touches the ceilling...<p>I love this car tho, I wouldn't take it over my 855 because it is too tight and noisy, but the engine, transmission are superb and the suspension is also quite a bit more comfortable.
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