The All New Volvo S80

The all new S80, introduced in 1998 and no doubt the ultimate replacement for the dated 900/S90 series, is really a stunner. Starting off with a naturally aspirated 2.9-litre inline-6 producing 201bhp at 6000rpm and 207lb-ft of torque; or the tarmac munching T6 with a 2.8-litre inline-6 twin turbo grinding out 272bhp at 5400rpm and 236lb-ft of torque at a friendly low 2000rpm. New to the Volvo line-up will be the General Motor's 4-Speed automatic gearbox with a semi-auto "Geartronic" feature shifter.

Accessories are a must in a luxurious saloon (sadly there will not be a V80), the S80 comes with a built in mobile phone with key controls that can be operated from the wheel for hands free communications. A optional satellite navigation system to get your location fast, a four disc integrated CD changer for your mobile studio and lots of courtesy lights. Electric seats, cruise control, trip computer and air-conditioning are standard on this luxo-rig. In addition to the standard quad airbags and "SIPS", Volvo has introduced the Whiplash Protection System ("WHIPS") for rear-end collision protection. For side-impacts, a inflatable curtain drops from the headliner alone the side windows to protect against head and neck injuries.

Specifications for Volvo S80T6
| Engine | Transverse front-mounted, 2783cc twin turbo inline-6 24v DOHC |
| Bore/stroke, mm | 91.0/90.0 |
| Compression ratio : 1 | 8.5 |
| Power | 272bhp at 5400rpm |
| Torque | 236lb-ft at 2000-5000rpm |
| Transmission / Drive | Automatic 4-Speed Geartronic / Front wheel drive |
| Suspension f/r | MacPherson struts, lower transverse links with anti-roll bar / Transverse links, control arms, coil with anti-roll bar |
| Brakes f/r | Vented discs / discs, ABS |
| Tires f/r | 225/50 ZR17 |
| Dimensions | L 4822/ W 1832 / Wheelbase 2791mm |
| Weight | 1489kg |
| Max Speed | 155mph / 260km/h |
| 0-62mph / 0-100km/h | 7.2sec |
| mpg (approx) | 25.9 |