V70: Should I hold out for a Mk2 'new shape' or not?

Post 7693 by BrightonBreezy on 2005-03-05 10:41:05

guys, I seek your opinion as to whether I should hold out for a newer Mk2 car. I'm actively looking to buy a V70 T5 within a tightly controlled (by her indoors) budget. I could probably get a Mk1 car ('96 - '00) easily enough. If I'm determined and lucky enough I may be able to get a new shape Mk2 ('00-). My question is: how much difference is there? Is the newer model such a significant improvement that it's really worth my while waiting for one to come along? Thanks.

Post 7743 by Wobbly Dave on 2005-03-06 03:03:12

Should you decide to tune it - you will be able to get more umph out of a phase 2. Volvotuning are using a phase 2 V70 to demonstrate how far you can go. The results are pretty astounding. I would go for one if budget allows. From a stock perspective there is less in it p1 to p2. Don't forget that p1 cars come with and without the ME7 engine management - namely the fly by wire throttle and variable valve timing. This is where alot of benefits can be gained (started in about 1999/2000, but the absense of throttle cable is a dead give away :wink: ) Finally there are the esthetics and the interior design changes - which you will have to decide on. Personally if I had the money I would have a V70 P2.

Post 7744 by Wobbly Dave on 2005-03-06 03:04:57

I also think that a P2 will hold its value better

Post 7814 by BrightonBreezy on 2005-03-07 09:41:36

Thanks for that, mate. Do you know whether the handling/suspension/brakes improved from the P1 to the P2, to better cope with a tuned T5 engine?

Post 7827 by Wobbly Dave on 2005-03-07 10:54:35

The P1 was more of a face-lifted 850. The underlying beast was still an old design. The internals on the P2 engines are better able to cope. The chassis is a newer design - but let's face it Volvo estates are not that nibble anyway. P2's have a strut brace integrated with the top engine mount - so it is possible to argue that yes the P2 is better set up. I love'em all, but like I said you can put more power through a P2 engine, without having to change the internals. There is nothing wrong with either p1 or p2 suspensions. Braking can be improved on all with better pad selection. P2 has a strut brace - but you can buy them for the V70 P1 and 850's anyway. BTW Handling is not a power issue IMHO - it is much more subtle.

Post 7916 by V8guitar on 2005-03-07 23:48:03

I can't give much of a view on the tech stuff but I've had a V70 Classic ( pre 2000 ) and "upgraded" to a 2001. Main differences to me are: P2 seems less "aggressive" and slighly smoother/refined, and perhaps a touch quicker. Interior ( I think P2 is a big improvement ) P1 seems a touch more nimble but not sure if this is just because it feels more substantial I miss the wood from my P1... Biggest difference.....are you ready...the turning circle on the P2 is really poor....not the sort of thing you normally notice, but its bad!! Personally, I think both are great as well and I wouldn't hesitate getting either. I mainly changed due to mileage and I felt I wanted the most up to date shape....P2 is also slightly lower than you expect...its quite squat! I also have the geartronic which is a bit hit or miss...Try it before you buy as I'm not sure if I'd have a geartronic again.

Post 8142 by BrightonBreezy on 2005-03-09 10:32:26

Thanks guys. A friend of who had a '98 V70 and has now moved on to a '04 V70 (neither T5s) also agrees with your opinions. He's not convinced by the exterior and interior changes but the P2 is definitely the better car. I'll start lobbying for a budget increase.

Post 8153 by V8guitar on 2005-03-09 12:48:55

I do love the Classic V70 ( P1 ) and the 850's - I think they look great. But I really have been converted to the P2 now! The look has really grown on me because they are actually lower than you expect. I need to change the grill though!!

Post 8172 by BrightonBreezy on 2005-03-09 14:52:23

VPTuning have a XC style replacement grill for the 70 series. http://www.vptuning.com/parts/catalog/product_info.php?products_id=147

Post 8174 by siamblue on 2005-03-09 15:50:09

God that is dear with postage that would be around the £140. Thiink they are a lot cheaper over here. Plus tax on that baby too.

Post 8189 by Bracer on 2005-03-09 16:42:15

A series one is closer to the pure driving feel of the 850, but then again that ain't for everyone :)

Post 8200 by BrightonBreezy on 2005-03-09 17:07:00

[QUOTE=siamblue]God that is dear with postage that would be around the £140. Thiink they are a lot cheaper over here. Plus tax on that baby too.[/QUOTE] Where can you get this sort of stuff in the UK? (at sensible prices)