VOLVO S80 (2003)
Running costs, common problems, and reliability data based on 856 real MOT tests in 2024.
MOT Pass Rate
74%
Total Tests (2024)
856
Avg Mileage
136,238 mi
Est. Annual Cost
£2,050
Is the 2003 VOLVO S80 reliable?
Average reliability. Expect some repairs as it ages. That's 8 points below the national average of 82%. It falls below the VOLVO brand average of 87%.
At 21 years old, 74% of VOLVO S80s from 2003 passed their MOT first time in 2024. That's based on 856 tests across the UK. The average mileage at this age is 136,238 miles.
How does the 2003 VOLVO S80 compare?
Mileage Analysis
The average 2003 VOLVO S80 has 136,238 miles on the clock, which is in line with the expected 155,400 miles for a 21-year-old car, suggesting normal everyday use.
Best year to buy a VOLVO S80?
The most reliable year is the 2016 model with a 94% MOT pass rate, while the 2000 model has the lowest at 73%. The 2003 sits between the two at 74%.
How much does a 2003 VOLVO S80 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 S80 by Year
| Year | Pass Rate | Tests | Avg Mileage |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2016 | 94% | 319 | 73,199 mi |
| 2015 | 85% | 661 | 88,512 mi |
| 2014 | 87% | 687 | 97,117 mi |
| 2013 | 85% | 835 | 97,075 mi |
| 2012 | 83% | 654 | 109,857 mi |
| 2011 | 84% | 738 | 127,960 mi |
| 2010 | 86% | 1,055 | 127,640 mi |
| 2009 | 80% | 882 | 133,255 mi |
| 2008 | 82% | 1,177 | 135,379 mi |
| 2007 | 80% | 1,396 | 137,080 mi |
| 2006 | 79% | 732 | 139,507 mi |
| 2005 | 76% | 826 | 141,284 mi |
| 2004 | 75% | 879 | 132,204 mi |
| 2003 | 74% | 856 | 136,238 mi |
| 2002 | 77% | 610 | 132,472 mi |
| 2001 | 74% | 517 | 123,256 mi |
| 2000 | 73% | 240 | 130,130 mi |
| 1999 | 80% | 275 | 125,351 mi |
| 1998 | 75% | 51 | 109,487 mi |
Checking a specific VOLVO S80?
Enter the reg plate to see its individual MOT history, mileage verification, and predicted costs.
About the 2003 VOLVO S80
The 2003 VOLVO S80 is a premium with a 2401cc diesel engine. 856 of these vehicles were MOT tested in 2024, making it a less common model in the UK market. Among all cars from 2003, the average MOT pass rate is 72%, and this model beats that benchmark.
With an average of 136,238 miles at 21 years old, VOLVO S80 owners drive about as much as the UK average.
2003 VOLVO S80 Fuel Costs
The 2401cc diesel engine offers a reasonable balance between performance and economy. Expect around 40 mpg in mixed driving, which works out to roughly £1,245 per year at current diesel prices of 148p per litre (based on 7,400 miles per year). Diesel cars of this age should have their DPF (diesel particulate filter) checked, as replacements can be costly.
What does it cost to own a 2003 VOLVO S80?
Total estimated annual running cost is £2,050 (£171/month), broken down as £1245 fuel, £250 road tax, £55 MOT, and £500 predicted repairs. Repair costs are moderate, reflecting the 74% pass rate. Keeping on top of servicing will help avoid surprises.
VOLVO S80 Reliability Trend
Newer VOLVO S80s show better MOT pass rates than older ones, with an average improvement of 9 percentage points.
Buying a Used 2003 VOLVO S80
At 21 years old, the VOLVO S80 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. If you're flexible on year, the 2016 model has the highest pass rate at 94%.
Alternatives to the 2003 VOLVO S80
If reliability is your priority, there's one similar car with a higher MOT pass rate. Here are comparable diesel cars with similar engines:
- HONDA CIVIC (2005) 73% pass rate (-1%) from 24,685 tests
- VOLKSWAGEN TRANSPORTER (2005) 72% pass rate (-2%) from 20,813 tests
- LAND ROVER DISCOVERY (2005) 78% pass rate (+4%) from 17,079 tests
- AUDI A4 (2004) 74% pass rate (same) from 12,946 tests