The VOLVO S40 (1996-04) 4DR SALOON 1.8 122 SPORT is a compact four-door saloon, offering a traditional alternative to hatchbacks popular with UK families. It sits in the compact family-saloon market, with understated looks and a useful separate boot rather than SUV height or city-car dimensions. Mycarcheck.com has recorded 111 checks covering 55 different VINs, a useful sample of cars attracting buyer interest. Those records show an average private-sale valuation of £500 and average recorded mileage of 98,000 miles; typical annual use was 6,000 miles. The average was about 4.6 previous keepers, so check each car’s history carefully. The 1.8-litre 122 Sport suits commuters, couples and small families seeking comfort and a composed drive, with more presence than a hatchback. Against similarly sized Ford, Vauxhall and Japanese saloons, the S40’s appeal is its reassuring Volvo image and sensible character. It’s a distinctive used choice, but condition matters more than the badge.