xc70 Buyer's Guide

[Gazzza]

Originally Posted by TiredGeek

Pre 2003 have a viscous coupling in the drive system - avoid at all costs.

I had a Sierra XR4X4 which is of the viscous coupling type for 18yrs no problems what so ever but I dont know what the differance is with the volvo type ?
I'm guessing its the same princable and the fluid is the Auto Dexron II
But all the years I had it I could not fault it hence which is why I have just bought an XC70 2002 plate . . . hope that helps

[Gazdkw]

Hey all, I’m in the same position too. Iv recently been in my friends 2002 XC70 and loved it.

I plan on getting the petrol and converting it to lpg. Anyone got thoughts on this? Makes it more like 60mpg rather than 30 with the reduced fuel costs.

Towing is important to me too as I tow a caravan and a trailer and I need a large boot.

I have seen a nice 2003 2.5T XC70 Petrol going for £2500. It has 132k on the clock. Recent clutch kit, 4 new Pirelli tyres, Volvo towbar system and the usual XC70 kit.

I’m going to see next Saturday. What would you suggest I look at/check?

[Simon Jones]

I run a couple of LPG vehicles and you obviously have to factor in cost of getting a decent conversion fitted. My current P3 XC70 had it fitted when I bought it so I was quids in from day 1. The expectation of 60 MPG equivalent in terms of fuel cost is perhaps a bit optimistic. You'd probably get 25 - 28 on petrol, and with the lower caloric value of LPG, a litre of gas will only only get you about 85% as far down the road as petrol. If overall you get something like 45 - 50 MPG equivant then you are at least on a par to a D5 manual.

[Gazdkw]

Thanks Simon,

So based on that info, is there much difference between an lpg converted 2.5T and a D5? Taking into account running Costs, performance, towing capability, repair costs etc?

Maybe I should just look at a diesel instead? Although I’ll be honest I wanted to stay away from diesel. Seem to have heavy repair costs compared to petrol

[S60D5-185]

Originally Posted by Gazdkw

Thanks Simon,

So based on that info, is there much difference between an lpg converted 2.5T and a D5? Taking into account running Costs, performance, towing capability, repair costs etc?

Maybe I should just look at a diesel instead? Although I’ll be honest I wanted to stay away from diesel. Seem to have heavy repair costs compared to petrol

I run a 2005 XC70D5 and it is a really good car even with 180k on the clock.

As far as Petrol being cheaper to repair/service, I know what you are saying but how many repairs and services could you do on a D5 for the equivalent cost of having an LPG kit installed?

A 2.5T with an LPG kit already installed would be a lovely option BUT a D5 will be far easier to source and will provide reliable economical motoring particularly if you get a 163 bhp diesel with no DPF .

[Gazdkw]

What’s the bhp of the 2.5T petrol?

My friends lpg conversation cost him £700. On a diesel that will cover... a dpf regen? Just lol

[S60D5-185]

Originally Posted by Gazdkw

What’s the bhp of the 2.5T petrol?

My friends lpg conversation cost him £700. On a diesel that will cover... a dpf regen? Just lol

Mine doesn't do regens as I have no DPF.

That said, my previous D5 did have a DPF and in 5 years and 70k miles I had absolutely zero issues with it.

[Gazdkw]

Ok so here’s the question, which would you have given the choice. Petrol (lpg converted) or the diesel, and why

[S60D5-185]

Diesel every time because of the torque ( I tow a caravan ) and that D5 engine is a beauty.

My last D5 185 bhp S60 was a joy to drive and 400nm of torque meant that it was never lacking.

[Gazdkw]

What’s the torque difference between the petrol and diesel?