Sweden vs Sweden — 1961 vs 1974
| P1800 1800S | 242 GT | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 118 hp | 123 hp |
| Torque | 125 lb-ft | 130 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 1,986 cc | 2,127 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 11.5 sec | 10.5 sec |
| Top Speed | 112 mph | 112 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 17.9 sec | 17.5 sec |
| Weight | 2,403 lbs | 2,778 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,450 mm | 2,640 mm |
| Length | 4,369 mm | 4,790 mm |
| Units Produced | 47,484 | — |
| Original MSRP | $4,000 | $8,445 |
| Value (Excellent) | $70,000 | $20,000 |
| Collectibility | 7/10 | 6/10 |
| Rarity | 5/10 | 5/10 |
It's a closely fought contest. The 1961 Volvo P1800 1800S brings lighter weight, stronger collectibility to the table, and the 1974 Volvo 242 GT answers with quicker acceleration, better value. 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 1961 Volvo P1800 1800S with the 1974 Volvo 242 GT highlights the breadth of the marque's engineering philosophy. On paper, the two are remarkably close in power output, with the 1961 Volvo P1800 1800S producing 118 hp and the 1974 Volvo 242 GT delivering 123 hp. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Volvo P1800 uses a Inline-4 OHV B18/B20 displacing 1,986 cc, while the Volvo 242 relies on a Inline-4 OHC with 2,127 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1974 Volvo 242 GT edges ahead at 10.5 seconds versus 11.5 seconds. The Volvo P1800 carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 375 lbs lighter. On the collector market, the 1961 Volvo P1800 1800S commands a significant premium over the 1974 Volvo 242 GT, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity.