SECOND-HAND SENSEWhat, certain types are given to asking, did we do before four-wheel-drives arrived? The answer is, of course, that the choice then of the affluent suburban set - and a good number of the county set - was the Volvo estate.
Was there ever a car that so comprehensively defined its owners? Its almost ubiquitous presence on the school run, at gymkhanas and outside antique shops gave it a reputation for sturdiness and longevity. Many actually bought it purely on the basis of Volvo's reputation for building safe cars - and Volvo drivers tend to be careful drivers.
The V70 estate may have suffered a little in recent years because of more chic competition, but it's still a workhorse that attracts a core following. In the same way as Fiat has always managed to make fine small cars, Volvo has managed to dominate the estate sector. I've seen wolfhounds and wardrobes disappear into the V70's cavernous rear.
For a car which seems to go on for ever, the V70 has quite good ride and handling characteristics. It's not a fun car to drive, but it is pleasant and undemanding. Steering is well weighted and handling reasonably precise. Traction control and ABS are standard.
Older models are boxy in the Volvo design tradition, but newer ones have quite an attractive, sloping look. The emphasis, however, is still on practicality.
Now almost seven years old, it's beginning to show its age somewhat prematurely. The interior, however, is clever, pleasing, comfortable and designed to last. More recent models are well equipped and second-hand buyers would do well to ensure they get a model with the up-to-date array of airbags and inflatable side safety curtains.
The range starts with a 2-litre (all engines are five-cylinder units) petrol with a light pressure turbo to carry that weight - output is about 180hp. Of equal interest is the diesel unit producing 163hp. Lots of people use these cars for towing so it's important they get the power to weight ratio right.
The V70 has a good record but some cars have been recalled. Problems have arisen - in relatively few cars - on tow bars, suspension ball joints, failing headlights, child safety locks and rear seat belt anchorage points.
There are not a lot of V70s on the second-hand market. A four-year-old one with 54,000 on the clock has an asking price of €26,000 and a two- year-old in another garage is asking €33,500, but has 53,000 on the clock.
The V70 scored four stars out of five in EuroNCAP crash tests with full marks for side impact. It was less successful in terms of the protection of the driver's legs and feet.
- DONAL BYRNE