Talk about an impressive comeback. In 1997, Volvo launched its C70 coupe, and the next year they rolled out a rag top. The elegant, sporty two-door was an underrated automotive gem, and the Swedes killed off the C70 after the 2004 model year. Thankfully, the C70 is back, combining the hard and soft tops into a dual-purpose marvel. With the top up, many convertibles look wretched. Not the new C70. It's got solid lines with the roof in place, and it's a slick and lean machine in sun worshipper mode. Taking design cues from the S40, the C70 scales back the feminine side of the original mode. It adds up to an awesome makeover.
Einstein would be impressed with the engineering of the C70's three-piece retractable hard top. In motion, it's as awe-inspiring as a Vegas magician doing a complex card trick. Minimalist dials and dash spare the flair, and the tiny video screen's readout looks like it came from an old school HP calculator. The cubby hole behind the center controls is an amazingly clever use of space. Surprisingly, the C70 has room for four adults -- the rear seats are more comfy than confining. Our tester sported the optional $1,550, 910-watt, 12-speaker Dynaudio system, with two bombastic 9-inch subwoofers. The system constantly monitors acoustic output, so top-down wind noise doesn't interfere with your enjoyment of Metallica. It's like having your own personal Lollapalooza in your ride.
Talk about a tough assignment. We had to fly all the way to Maui to test drive the new C70 on the infamous Hana Highway. One of the wildest strips of asphalt in the world, the ridiculously winding road boasts 600 turns in a mere 35 miles. On this challenging terrain, we found the C70 nimble and confident with almost no body roll. The 218-horse inline 5 churned out decent power (zero to 60 in around seven seconds), but it strained slightly up hills. The optional 5-speed auto transmission felt a bit too pensive and a trifle sluggish. Then again, we were pushing the car about 10 times harder than your average laid-back convertible driver.
After babes in bikinis marvel at the innovative retractable top, invite them to sun themselves in the shotgun seat.
