Volvo P1800

vs

Volvo V60 Polestar

Sweden vs Sweden — 1961 vs 2014

Volvo P1800 (1961)
Volvo V60 Polestar (2014)
Specifications
P1800 1800SV60 Polestar Performance
Horsepower118 hp367 hp
Torque125 lb-ft347 lb-ft
Engine Size1,986 cc1,969 cc
0-60 mph11.5 sec4.4 sec
Top Speed112 mph155 mph
¼ Mile17.9 sec12.9 sec
Weight2,403 lbs3,935 lbs
Wheelbase2,450 mm2,776 mm
Length4,369 mm4,635 mm
Units Produced47,4841,500
Original MSRP$4,000$60,400
Value (Excellent)$70,000$55,000
Collectibility7/107/10
Rarity5/108/10
The Verdict

The 2014 Volvo V60 Polestar Performance 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.

Overview

The 1961 Volvo P1800 1800S and 2014 Volvo V60 Polestar Performance 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 2014 Volvo V60 Polestar Performance holds a clear advantage in raw power with 367 hp compared to 118 hp, a 249-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 V60 Polestar relies on a Inline-4 Turbo Supercharged DOHC with 1,969 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 2014 Volvo V60 Polestar Performance edges ahead at 4.4 seconds versus 11.5 seconds. The Volvo P1800 carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 1532 lbs lighter. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 1,500 units built, the 2014 Volvo V60 Polestar Performance is considerably scarcer than the Volvo P1800's 47,484 examples. Both trade at comparable values on the collector market, making the choice between them largely one of personal preference.