Volvo 1800ES

vs

Volvo V60

Sweden vs Sweden — 1971 vs 2014

Volvo 1800ES (1971)
Volvo V60 (2014)
Specifications
1800ES StandardV60 Polestar
Horsepower135 hp350 hp
Torque129 lb-ft369 lb-ft
Engine Size1,986 cc2,953 cc
0-60 mph9.5 sec4.8 sec
Top Speed118 mph155 mph
¼ Mile17.0 sec13.2 sec
Weight2,668 lbs3,891 lbs
Wheelbase2,450 mm2,776 mm
Length4,390 mm4,628 mm
Units Produced8,0771,500
Original MSRP$5,275$60,395
Value (Excellent)$60,000$55,000
Collectibility8/107/10
Rarity7/107/10
The Verdict

The 2014 Volvo V60 Polestar emerges ahead in most objective measures, offering more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed. The 1971 Volvo 1800ES Standard counters with lighter weight, stronger collectibility, 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 1971 Volvo 1800ES Standard and 2014 Volvo V60 Polestar 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 holds a clear advantage in raw power with 350 hp compared to 135 hp, a 215-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Volvo 1800ES uses a Inline-4 OHV displacing 1,986 cc, while the Volvo V60 relies on a Inline-6 DOHC 24V Turbocharged with 2,953 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 2014 Volvo V60 Polestar edges ahead at 4.8 seconds versus 9.5 seconds. The Volvo 1800ES carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 1223 lbs lighter. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 1,500 units built, the 2014 Volvo V60 Polestar is considerably scarcer than the Volvo 1800ES's 8,077 examples. Both trade at comparable values on the collector market, making the choice between them largely one of personal preference.