I just bought a 2001 XC70 for my wife. After about a month, I have driven it 10 or 20 times, and I thought it probably needed a new battery. The engine seemed slow to turn over, and the lights went completely dark when starting. However, I pulled the battery cover in the back, and the battery looks brand new. I tested the voltage with a mulitmeter, and it read 12.5 volts. My questions:

Is it normal for the lights to turn off while starting?

Is it normal for the engine to take about two seconds to turn over? (Compared to a half second in my other car)

Is it normal for an old battery to look new, because it is stored in the back, not exposed to the elements?

Does 12.5 volts sound good? I think it does, but I am not an expert. Maybe the battery has good voltage but still have some problem delivering the amperage.

Thanks for any help!