C70: Do I dare?

[DaleE]

I'm selling one of my convertibles to a friend, and he has said that if I take a mere $200 off my price, he'll give me his 2000 C70.

A 2000 C70, that is, with more than a few problems.

So I'm here for the wisdom of this group. Do I grab hold of this "adventure" that's being offered to me?

Here's a list of what's wrong with this vehicle:

*convertible top no longer functions
*alarm sounds continuously--apparently because top is not locked closed
*leaks oil
*stalls at stop signs
*plenty of other stuff

I don't mind working on old cars, and I have the space. But I have plenty of other projects going on, and don't need an unnecessary nightmare in my garage.

Should I take my friend up on his offer? Will I be able to get more than two hundred for this vehicle after I've sorted a few of the problems?

[ITSv40]

If the car is in generally good condition - straight bodywork and nice interior etc you should get more than 200 for it when the issues are sorted. However, it all depends on how you feel about spending time and money on a project to bring it up to standard. If your heart isn't in it from the outset, I would decline the offer and spend my time and effort on doing something I enjoy.

[Tannaton]

I’d agree with the above…. Nearly all parts are available new or used, if it’s a “dry state” car with straight panels, no rust, watertight roof and it’s got a decent engine (2.4LPT or T5) then what’s to lose at £200?

[DaveNP]

I don't know how the US system works for old cars but in the UK you could probably get something near £200 just weighing it in for scrap and more if you break it for parts. If you've got the space, tools and ability to sort it it's got to be worth $200.
The C70 top does seem to suffer from niggly problems as they age, there are threads in the 850 -C70 section with helpful advice. Overall a scan with proper Volvo diagnostics would be a good start and could show some simple fixes.

[Familyman 90]

Buy it, love it, and bring it back from the brink. Only 44,000 odd 'verts were made and they're fast dying out. They'll become almost extinct before people remember how good they are but by then it'll be too late.

[john.wigley]

Originally Posted by Familyman 90

Buy it, love it, and bring it back from the brink. Only 44,000 odd 'verts were made and they're fast dying out. They'll become almost extinct before people remember how good they are but by then it'll be too late.

I concur. Being life-long Volvo aficionados, we searched in vain for a nice C70 to complement our V70 when we were looking for our retirement 'toy'. We eventually settled for a Saab 9-3 'vert. To be fair, its not that bad a car and at least its Swedish!

Regards, John