The Volvo C30 – the only non-British-manufactured car here – is one of the Noughties’ most interesting hatchbacks, designed purposefully to evoke memories of the classic 1800ES and 480ES. It boasted a body that was more mini-shooting brake than family favourite, and that lift-up glass rear-end was a proper case of style over substance. Besides if you wanted a sensible small Volvo, the V40 would have been more your thing.
Unlike many Swedish motors, the C30 had a relatively short lifespan. It was launched in a blaze of glory in 2006 but the game was up by 2013 and it was never replaced. Put that down to the changing ownership of the company and a wholesale move in the market towards small SUVs. That’s to the detriment of those who appreciate choice today but a relatively limited of supply of cars will keep supply low and demand high. The C30 doesn’t really put a foot wrong on the road and its quick steering and agile handling are a direct result of its shared underpinnings with the Ford Focus. That’s perfect for a car that’s more coupé than hatchback.
The T5 is the highlight of the range. Just like its so-badged 850 and V70 brethren the C30 T5 is a bit of a firecracker with oodles of turbocharged performance and all of the midrange punch you could ever need for fun give-and-take driving. But what I particularly like about it is that it shouts so quietly – it may have up to 230bhp and scorch from 0-60mph in six seconds but only the most seasoned of car spotters would probably be able to tell it apart from any other C30.
There’s an interesting range of engines to choose from. If you’re looking for easy maintenance and long-term happiness, I’d recommend going for a petrol car. Of these, the 99bhp 1.6 is economical but underpowered and the 168bhp 2.4- and 2.5-litre turbocharged five-cylinder units shared with the Ford Focus ST are thirsty but offer charisma and great performance. The good news is that lowly C30s can be had from as little as £1000 but the cracking T5 model is going to need a £5000 investment if you want a good one. This is the one to go for if you’re looking for an easy entry into the classic car world, not to mention the best potential investment return.
DO YOUR READING
One of the many recallsls on the C30 was for leaky power steering pipework so check the bills. Knocks from the suspension will be from worn anti-roll-bar bushes, drop links and possibly broken coil springs. Find out what anti-lock braking system you’ve got because there were issues with the ABS on some cars; a telltalee ESP warning light will be the clue. We’re told that the Bosch system is okay, but watch out for the 2007 cars with the Teaves Mk60 set-up.
DON’T LEAVE LEAVES BEHIND
As with so many cars bui
