Sweden vs Sweden — 1961 vs 1982
| P1800 1800S | 780 Bertone Turbo | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 118 hp | 182 hp |
| Torque | 125 lb-ft | 214 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 1,986 cc | 2,316 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 11.5 sec | 8.5 sec |
| Top Speed | 112 mph | 130 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 17.9 sec | 16.5 sec |
| Weight | 2,403 lbs | 3,076 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,450 mm | 2,770 mm |
| Length | 4,369 mm | 4,785 mm |
| Units Produced | 47,484 | 8,518 |
| Original MSRP | $4,000 | $29,950 |
| Value (Excellent) | $70,000 | $25,000 |
| Collectibility | 7/10 | 6/10 |
| Rarity | 5/10 | 7/10 |
Numbers favor the 1982 Volvo 780 Bertone Turbo with more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed. The 1961 Volvo P1800 1800S offers lighter weight, stronger collectibility, and has its own devoted following. For those who let their heart decide, either car delivers a rewarding ownership experience.
Volvo has long offered a diverse lineup, and comparing the 1961 Volvo P1800 1800S with the 1982 Volvo 780 Bertone Turbo highlights the breadth of the marque's engineering philosophy. The 1982 Volvo 780 Bertone Turbo holds a clear advantage in raw power with 182 hp compared to 118 hp, a 64-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Volvo P1800 uses a Inline-4 OHV B18/B20 displacing 1,986 cc, while the Volvo 780 relies on a Inline-4 Turbo SOHC with 2,316 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1982 Volvo 780 Bertone Turbo edges ahead at 8.5 seconds versus 11.5 seconds. The Volvo P1800 carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 673 lbs lighter. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 8,518 units built, the 1982 Volvo 780 Bertone Turbo is considerably scarcer than the Volvo P1800's 47,484 examples. On the collector market, the 1961 Volvo P1800 1800S commands a significant premium over the 1982 Volvo 780 Bertone Turbo, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity.