Volvo V50 vs Volvo V70
The short answer
Based on available data, the Volvo V70 comes out ahead of the Volvo V50 on power. Check the specs table and owner sentiment below for the full comparison before deciding between the two. Both are covered by real owner reports on CarWizz.
Specs side by side
What owners say
V50
Overall
Mixed sentiment with a clear divide based on engine choice and maintenance history. The V50 is widely appreciated for its comfortable ride, sporty and engaging handling on winding roads, sturdy feel, and practical wagon form. Enthusiast feedback for the T5 turbocharged 5-cylinder models is particularly positive, praising the power, 6-speed manual transmission, and overall driving experience.
Best version to buy
T5 models with the 2.5L turbocharged 5-cylinder engine, particularly when paired with the 6-speed manual transmission. The T5 AWD configuration is noted as a rare and desirable combination.
Known issues
- Wheel bearing failures: noted as a common wear item, potentially costly to replace. Frequency: recurrent.
- Water ingress: due to clogged sunroof drains, failing windscreen seals, or leaks through rear light clusters, leading to wet footwells or spare tire well. Frequency: recurrent.
- Oil consumption (1.8L petrol engine): significant burning oil, potentially leading to engine damage. Frequency: recurrent.
V70
Overall
Overwhelmingly positive sentiment among long-term owners, characterized by deep affection and loyalty. The V70 is consistently praised as a "tank" for its legendary durability, with numerous reports of high-mileage examples (250,000+ miles/400,000+ km) continuing to provide reliable service with basic maintenance. Owners express strong emotional attachment to the car's practicality, cavernous cargo space with fold-flat seats, comfortable "Swedish cow" upholstery, distinctive 5-cylinder engine note, and overall driving comfort, especially on long highway journeys.
Best version to buy
For the P2 generation (2000-2007), a facelifted model (2003+) is frequently recommended to avoid early teething issues. The turbocharged 2.4T or T5 engines are strongly preferred over the naturally aspirated 2.4 for their superior power, with the 2.4T noted as more reliable for modifications.
Known issues
- PCV (Positive Crankcase Ventilation) system failure: causes crankcase pressure, leading to oil leaks and blown seals if clogged. Requires replacement of oil trap and associated hoses. Frequency: very frequent.
- Automatic transmission issues (P2 Geartronic 5-speed): hard shifts, shift flare, clunking into gear, especially when warm. Linked to valve body solenoids and fluid degradation. Frequency: very frequent.
- ABS module failure: causes intermittent ABS warning light. The module can be removed and rebuilt. Frequency: very frequent.
The verdict
The Volvo V70 is the better choice for most buyers.
It has more power on its best-equipped version than the Volvo V50, based on the data above. If efficiency matters more to you than outright power, the Volvo V50 is worth a closer look instead.
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Common problems by model year
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Frequently asked questions
Which is more reliable, the Volvo V50 or the Volvo V70?
Owner reports show similar reliability sentiment for the Volvo V50 and the Volvo V70. Check the known issues listed above for specific differences between the two.
Which is better for families, the Volvo V50 or the Volvo V70?
Data on family-specific factors like cargo space is limited for one or both models, but based on available reports, both are positioned as practical daily drivers. Check the specs table above for seating and body type.
Which has better fuel economy, the Volvo V50 or the Volvo V70?
The EPA rates the 2011 Volvo V50 at 24 mpg combined and the 2010 Volvo V70 at 21 mpg, depending on the version.
Which is cheaper to maintain, the Volvo V50 or the Volvo V70?
Exact maintenance costs aren't in our data, but owner reports mention cost-related concerns more often for the Volvo V50 than the Volvo V70. See the known issues comparison above.