The last of the old-style Volvos, the C70 convertible has finally been replaced by a sexy new sun seeker that debuted at Frankfurt. The new C70 convertible--with a clever, three-piece retractable hard top rather than a traditional soft top--will be powered by the same 218-hp, 2.5-liter, five-cylinder turbo found in the S40 sedan and the V50 wagon, cars with which it will share a platform. While these chassis mates look similar, the only common body parts between the C70 and the S40/V50 are the hood, outside rear-view mirrors, and door handles. The normally aspirated, 168-hp 2.4-liter and all-wheel drive are unlikely options, however. A six-speed manual or five-speed manu-matic will direct power to the front wheels.
Since its debut as a 1998 model, the first-generation C70 has sold nearly 50,000 copies worldwide. Volvo hopes to move C70s at a rate twice as fast with the all-new model. The car goes on sale in the U.S. next spring at a price between $35,000 and $40,000.