The first generation Volvo S80 was released in 1998 and over 368,000 were sold before the introduction of the second generation in 2006. The flagship model of the S80 marked the appearance of several firsts for the car industry in general. Volvos were and are based on design standards that exemplify safety and the integrity of meticulous engineering.

One of the revolutionary features of the S80 was a fully integrated GMS phone system. Automobiles today are following suit by introducing hands-free communication/entertainment systems. The engineers at Volvo foresaw the safety risks involved with hands-on car phones and acted - over a decade ago.

The Volvo company also claims to be the originator of the traverse mounted straight six engine. No gearbox in existence could accommodate the configuration, so Volvo engineered their own - the Volvo M65. It was said to be the world's smallest gearbox. It took the record from a previous Volvo gearbox, the M56, that was used for the first of the 850 series that featured 5-cylinder engines.

Lastly, the Volvo S80 was the first car to ever have an environmental specification. Issues such as allergens from textiles and the life cycle of the vehicle itself were all considered in great detail. Volvo once again showed excellent foresight in voluntarily implementing these measures.

Volvo also made great strides in multiplex wiring schemes with the S80. Modern car manufacturing design and manufacturing standards would not be even close to what they are today in terms of safety and sophistication without it.

It was in 2006 on February 28 that Volvo introduced its second generation S80 at the Geneva Motor Show. The new model had undergone substantial upgrades in nearly every aspect. It featured a 3.2L straight six engine, or a 4WD-available version with a 4.4L V8. High-tech electronic emission systems complimented the four separate catalytic converters. Again, Volvo proved itself to be an environmentally-responsible, proactive leader for the green movement. The safety of the second generation S80s was enhanced by utilizing a greater amount of boron steel in the body. The interior of these second generation Volvo s80s are considered to be one of the most comfortable ever developed.

In 2007 and 2008, the S80 received the IIHS Top Safety Pick award for overall safety innovation and improvements. Receiving perfect scores in front, side and rear impact tests, the S80 has consistently outdone all other automobiles. Volvo moves forward with ingenious features like the Volvo Personal Car Communicator system. It is a remote unit that consistently reviews security levels and lets the driver know, before entering, if the alarm is active, if the doors are locked and even if there is a heartbeat detected inside.

The Volvo S80 continues to be a top worldwide seller. Volvo has always been a solid leader for automotive safety and innovation.