VOLVO V70 (1998)
Running costs, common problems, and reliability data based on 2,545 real MOT tests in 2024.
MOT Pass Rate
71%
Total Tests (2024)
2,545
Avg Mileage
163,098 mi
Est. Annual Cost
£2,050
Is the 1998 VOLVO V70 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 26 years old, 71% of VOLVO V70s from 1998 passed their MOT first time in 2024. That's based on 2,545 tests across the UK. The average mileage at this age is 163,098 miles.
How does the 1998 VOLVO V70 compare?
Mileage Analysis
The average 1998 VOLVO V70 has 163,098 miles on the clock, which is in line with the expected 192,400 miles for a 26-year-old car, suggesting normal everyday use.
Best year to buy a VOLVO V70?
The most reliable year is the 2016 model with a 88% MOT pass rate, while the 2002 model has the lowest at 70%. The 1998 sits between the two at 71%.
How much does a 1998 VOLVO V70 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 V70 by Year
| Year | Pass Rate | Tests | Avg Mileage |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2016 | 88% | 1,228 | 78,855 mi |
| 2015 | 85% | 3,395 | 87,586 mi |
| 2014 | 85% | 3,373 | 100,014 mi |
| 2013 | 82% | 3,154 | 115,277 mi |
| 2012 | 81% | 2,915 | 123,694 mi |
| 2011 | 82% | 3,696 | 128,965 mi |
| 2010 | 80% | 5,168 | 136,037 mi |
| 2009 | 77% | 7,268 | 141,176 mi |
| 2008 | 79% | 6,242 | 145,833 mi |
| 2007 | 76% | 5,153 | 144,943 mi |
| 2006 | 74% | 5,049 | 147,175 mi |
| 2005 | 73% | 6,350 | 155,857 mi |
| 2004 | 71% | 5,478 | 158,377 mi |
| 2003 | 71% | 4,846 | 158,001 mi |
| 2002 | 70% | 4,400 | 157,266 mi |
| 2001 | 71% | 2,976 | 151,094 mi |
| 2000 | 71% | 2,458 | 158,830 mi |
| 1999 | 72% | 2,866 | 164,681 mi |
| 1998 | 71% | 2,545 | 163,098 mi |
| 1997 | 71% | 1,772 | 162,096 mi |
Checking a specific VOLVO V70?
Enter the reg plate to see its individual MOT history, mileage verification, and predicted costs.
About the 1998 VOLVO V70
The 1998 VOLVO V70 is a premium with a 2461cc diesel engine. 2,545 of these vehicles were MOT tested in 2024, making it a reasonably common sight on UK roads. Among all cars from 1998, the average MOT pass rate is 75%, and this model falls short of that benchmark.
With an average of 163,098 miles at 26 years old, VOLVO V70 owners drive about as much as the UK average.
1998 VOLVO V70 Fuel Costs
The 2461cc 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 1998 VOLVO V70?
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 71% pass rate. Keeping on top of servicing will help avoid surprises.
VOLVO V70 Reliability Trend
Newer VOLVO V70s show better MOT pass rates than older ones, with an average improvement of 10 percentage points.
Buying a Used 1998 VOLVO V70
At 26 years old, the VOLVO V70 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 88%.
Alternatives to the 1998 VOLVO V70
If reliability is your priority, there are 3 similar cars with a higher MOT pass rate. Here are comparable diesel cars with similar engines:
- VOLKSWAGEN TRANSPORTER (1999) 70% pass rate (-1%) from 12,854 tests
- LAND ROVER DEFENDER (1997) 76% pass rate (+5%) from 10,084 tests
- LAND ROVER DISCOVERY (1999) 75% pass rate (+4%) from 5,978 tests
- FORD TRANSIT (1998) 72% pass rate (+1%) from 3,080 tests