The Volvo V70 TDI with a Knaus Sudwind 500 KU with an actual weight of 1310 kg is in general a good match and suitable for all journeys on all kinds of roads.
The motor preformance of the Volvo is in general fairly good. And also the weight of the Knaus with a normally distributed User Payload (200 kg in the caravan and 200 kg in the car including passengers), is good.
Flat roads
Towing Performance
220
178
Mountains
Risk of snaking
239
188
Weight ratio: 71% (80% of kerbweight)
1310 kg
1838 kg
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Volvo V70 TDI Knaus Sudwind 500 KU
Actual Weights
Knaus Sudwind 500 KU: 1310 kg.
Volvo V70 TDI: 1838 kg.
Noseweight: 75 kg.
Actual weight ratio: 71%.
Performance
The engine's performance is generally good on flat roads (performance score to compare 220 points).
Speeds of 73 mph (117 km/h) to 78 mph (126 km/h) are often quite possible.
There is sufficient power at low engine speeds (score to compare 178 points).
Slightly higher revs (1800 rpm) may be necessary under normal conditions on flat roads.
Acceleration from 0-62 mph (0-100 km/h) is theoretically possible in 19.2 sec.
In the mountains the performance is generally good (score to compare 239 points).
No problems are to be expected on steep mountain roads. Hill starts are possible on steep slopes up to 16%.
On motorway inclines higher revs (3000 rpm) are needed.
A speed of 63 mph (102 km/h) is usually possible on most motorway inclines.
Weight
The towing limit of the Volvo is more than sufficient (check this in your vehicle documents).
If you passed your driving test after 1 January 1997, a B driving license is enough.
Weight ratio between the laden caravan and the loaded car is 71%. Common in the UK: the weight ratio between the laden caravan and the kerbweight of the car is 80%.
The chance of snaking is relatively small at normal speed, if the caravan is well loaded.
Recommended noseweight is 75 kg.
Stability and safety score to compare is 188 points.
If the caravan starts to snake you should reduce your speed and slow down directly! Lift your feet off the accelerator and brake gradually. Hold the steering wheel into a fixed position.
Conclusion
Performance is fairly good.
Safe driving is possible.
It's a perfect match!
Influence of User Payload on stability
Weight distribution and noseweight are vital in obtaining a stable caravan.