Wagons are the mainstay of Volvo, and the V70 continued to enjoy great popularity in 2004. Like every car made by the Swedish company, it is full of safety features that are part of even a base model's standard equipment. That list includes ABS, air bags, side-beams, a whiplash protection system, and stability and traction control. The 2004 V70 was made with five trim levels: the 2.4i, the 2.5T, the 2.5T AWD, the T5, and the R. The 2.5T AWD and the R are all-wheel drive. People who own this car love its looks overall, although as expected they place highest regard on the life-saving aspects. But here's a red flag: several different engine problems seem to recur with this model. In anecdotal accounts, drivers of the V70 cite the car's large turning radius and excessive production of brake dust, as well as less legroom than expected in the backseat.

A new option for this year is the gas-discharged bi-xenon headlights, which have replaceable bulbs. Options were also available for an electronic parking aid, which could come in handy when you're backing this beautiful barge into a tight space.