Volvo S80

In the 1990s, Volvo was undergoing a transition away from rear-wheel drive systems and the robust but outdated 4-cylinder "red block" engines. The new P80 platform introduced models like the 850 and C70, redefining Volvo's image in terms of safety, style, and comfort with innovative "white block" aluminum engines and front-wheel or all-wheel drive chassis. Following the success of the P80 platform, Volvo further advanced the high-tech trends of the 1990s with the P2 platform: these new OBD2 vehicles featured an Engine Control Module (ECM) that communicated with many other onboard computer modules over a high-speed data network.

OBD2 networked cars enabled advanced safety systems such as DSTC traction and stability control in the S80. The DSTC module monitored data from wheel speed sensors and chassis accelerometers, sending commands to the Brake Control Module to individually brake wheels that showed signs of slipping and to the Engine Control Module to reduce power until slipping ceased.

The design process heavily utilized computers, enhancing chassis durability through CAD design improvements and developing new safety systems like WHIPS neck protection and SIPS side-impact protection, supported by the new IC "inflatable curtain" side airbags.

The first model on the P2 platform was the new luxury flagship S80, which replaced the S90 sedan. It offered a 2.9L atmospheric six-cylinder engine as well as a new twin-turbo version of Volvo's "white block" engine family. Known for its swift "T5" five-cylinder turbo engines, Volvo introduced the new T6, which could propel the spacious and comfortable S80 from 0 to 100 km/h in under six seconds with its 268 hp.

However, another less-favored aspect was the 4T65 4-speed automatic transmission; the T6's 280 lb-ft of torque and rapid power increase were very close to the maximum torque rating of the GM-sourced transmission. This situation could lead to overheating and faulty components due to harsh shifting and the loss of specific gears.

In 2004, the S80 was equipped with a lightly pressurized turbocharged "2.5T" engine and an AW55 5-speed automatic transmission. This engine, functioning well under light loads, suited the S80's smooth driving character, particularly when used with the Haldex AWD option. Additionally, in 2004, Volvo introduced its Four-C active chassis system; S80s equipped with 4C could switch between comfort and sport modes. In sport mode, the stiffness of the dampers increased, throttle response became more sensitive, and more flexible stability control settings were engaged for intervention during skidding.

1999-2006 S80 T6

Equipped with a straight-six twin-turbocharged "T6" gasoline engine.

1999-2000 models: 2.8L (B6284T).

2001-2006 models: 2.9L (B6294T).

Bosch ME7 "Motronic" engine management.

Available only with front-wheel drive and the 4T65EV-GT automatic transmission.

2004-2006 S80 2.5T & AWD

Equipped with a lightly pressurized turbocharged "2.5T" B5254T2 gasoline straight-five engine.

Bosch ME7 "Motronic" engine management.

Available with front-wheel drive or Haldex AWD using Aisin-Warner's 5-speed AW55 automatic transmission.

Provides good low-rev acceleration as a "city vehicle."

1999-2006 S80 2.9 or Naturally Aspirated (6-cylinder)

Equipped with an atmospheric 2.9L gasoline straight-six engine.

1999 models were designated "3.0L" (B6304S3).

2001-2006 models (B6324S or B6324S2).

Available only with front-wheel drive and the 4T65EV automatic transmission.

Bosch ME7 "Motronic" engine management.