Sweden vs Sweden — 1961 vs 1994
| P1800 1800S | 850 T-5R | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 118 hp | 240 hp |
| Torque | 125 lb-ft | 243 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 1,986 cc | 2,319 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 11.5 sec | 6.2 sec |
| Top Speed | 112 mph | 152 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 17.9 sec | 14.7 sec |
| Weight | 2,403 lbs | 3,263 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,450 mm | 2,665 mm |
| Length | 4,369 mm | 4,660 mm |
| Units Produced | 47,484 | 6,614 |
| Original MSRP | $4,000 | $36,500 |
| Value (Excellent) | $70,000 | $50,000 |
| Collectibility | 7/10 | 7/10 |
| Rarity | 5/10 | 7/10 |
The 1994 Volvo 850 T-5R emerges ahead in most objective measures, offering more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed. The 1961 Volvo P1800 1800S counters with lighter weight, but the numbers favor its rival. Still, both are remarkable machines, and the final choice often comes down to which driving experience speaks to you.
The 1961 Volvo P1800 1800S and 1994 Volvo 850 T-5R share a manufacturer in Volvo, but that's where the similarities get interesting. These two models reveal the versatility and ambition of the Volvo brand. The 1994 Volvo 850 T-5R holds a clear advantage in raw power with 240 hp compared to 118 hp, a 122-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 850 relies on a Inline-5 Turbo DOHC 20V with 2,319 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1994 Volvo 850 T-5R edges ahead at 6.2 seconds versus 11.5 seconds. The Volvo P1800 carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 860 lbs lighter. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 6,614 units built, the 1994 Volvo 850 T-5R is considerably scarcer than the Volvo P1800's 47,484 examples.