VOLVO 800 SERIES (1997)
Running costs, common problems, and reliability data based on 498 real MOT tests in 2024.
MOT Pass Rate
71%
Total Tests (2024)
498
Avg Mileage
150,360 mi
Est. Annual Cost
£2,017
Is the 1997 VOLVO 800 SERIES reliable?
Average reliability. Expect some repairs as it ages. That's 11 points below the national average of 82%. It falls below the VOLVO brand average of 87%.
At 27 years old, 71% of VOLVO 800 SERIESs from 1997 passed their MOT first time in 2024. That's based on 498 tests across the UK. The average mileage at this age is 150,360 miles.
How does the 1997 VOLVO 800 SERIES compare?
Mileage Analysis
The average 1997 VOLVO 800 SERIES has 150,360 miles on the clock, which is below the expected 199,800 miles for a 27-year-old car. This suggests lighter use than average, which generally means less wear on major components.
Best year to buy a VOLVO 800 SERIES?
The most reliable year is the 1995 model with a 76% MOT pass rate, while the 1997 model has the lowest at 71%. Consider a different year if reliability is a priority.
How much does a 1997 VOLVO 800 SERIES cost to run?
Higher than average due to low pass rate
Based on 7,400 miles/year (UK average), current fuel prices, and repair likelihood from MOT pass rate data. Insurance not included.
VOLVO 800 SERIES by Year
Checking a specific VOLVO 800 SERIES?
Enter the reg plate to see its individual MOT history, mileage verification, and predicted costs.
About the 1997 VOLVO 800 SERIES
The 1997 VOLVO 800 SERIES is a premium with a 1984cc petrol engine. 498 of these vehicles were MOT tested in 2024, making it a less common model in the UK market. Among all cars from 1997, the average MOT pass rate is 75%, and this model falls short of that benchmark.
With an average of 150,360 miles at 27 years old, VOLVO 800 SERIES owners tend to use this car less than the typical driver.
1997 VOLVO 800 SERIES Fuel Costs
The 1984cc petrol engine offers a reasonable balance between performance and economy. Expect around 36 mpg in mixed driving, which works out to roughly £1,327 per year at current petrol prices of 142p per litre (based on 7,400 miles per year).
What does it cost to own a 1997 VOLVO 800 SERIES?
Total estimated annual running cost is £2,017 (£168/month), broken down as £1327 fuel, £135 road tax, £55 MOT, and £500 predicted repairs. Repair costs are moderate, reflecting the 71% pass rate. Keeping on top of servicing will help avoid surprises.
VOLVO 800 SERIES Reliability Trend
The VOLVO 800 SERIES has maintained consistent MOT pass rates across model years, varying by only 0 percentage points.
Buying a Used 1997 VOLVO 800 SERIES
At 27 years old, the VOLVO 800 SERIES is firmly in budget territory. Purchase prices are low, but check for rust, worn suspension bushes, and electrical gremlins. A full service history is especially valuable at this age.
Alternatives to the 1997 VOLVO 800 SERIES
If reliability is your priority, there are 3 similar cars with a higher MOT pass rate. Here are comparable petrol cars with similar engines:
- MAZDA MX-5 (1999) 73% pass rate (+2%) from 8,535 tests
- VOLKSWAGEN GOLF (1999) 71% pass rate (same) from 8,442 tests
- BMW 3 SERIES (1998) 79% pass rate (+8%) from 6,287 tests
- BMW Z3 (1997) 75% pass rate (+4%) from 5,268 tests