Sweden vs Sweden — 1981 vs 2016
| 242 Turbo Group A Homologation | S90 T8 Recharge Polestar Engineered | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 155 hp | 455 hp |
| Torque | 181 lb-ft | 523 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 2,127 cc | 1,969 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 8.9 sec | 4.7 sec |
| Top Speed | 124 mph | 155 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 16.7 sec | 13.0 sec |
| Weight | 2,932 lbs | 4,641 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,640 mm | 2,941 mm |
| Length | 4,790 mm | 4,970 mm |
| Original MSRP | $16,495 | $73,050 |
| Value (Excellent) | $40,000 | $65,000 |
| Collectibility | 7/10 | 4/10 |
| Rarity | 7/10 | 5/10 |
It's a closely fought contest. The 1981 Volvo 242 Turbo Group A Homologation brings lighter weight, stronger collectibility, better value to the table, and the 2016 Volvo S90 T8 Recharge Polestar Engineered answers with more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed. Both are excellent machines that reward their owners in different ways — there's no wrong answer here.
Volvo has long offered a diverse lineup, and comparing the 1981 Volvo 242 Turbo Group A Homologation with the 2016 Volvo S90 T8 Recharge Polestar Engineered highlights the breadth of the marque's engineering philosophy. The 2016 Volvo S90 T8 Recharge Polestar Engineered holds a clear advantage in raw power with 455 hp compared to 155 hp, a 300-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Volvo 242 Turbo uses a Inline-4 Turbo SOHC displacing 2,127 cc, while the Volvo S90 relies on a Inline-4 DOHC 16V Supercharged + Turbocharged + Electric Motor with 1,969 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 2016 Volvo S90 T8 Recharge Polestar Engineered edges ahead at 4.7 seconds versus 8.9 seconds. The Volvo 242 Turbo carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 1709 lbs lighter. On the collector market, the 2016 Volvo S90 T8 Recharge Polestar Engineered commands a significant premium over the 1981 Volvo 242 Turbo Group A Homologation, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity. From a collectibility standpoint, the 1981 Volvo 242 Turbo Group A Homologation rates higher among enthusiasts and auction houses.