Volvo P1800

vs

Volvo 940 Turbo

Sweden vs Sweden — 1961 vs 1990

Volvo P1800 (1961)
Volvo 940 Turbo (1990)
Specifications
P1800 S940 Turbo Estate
Horsepower130 hp165 hp
Torque127 lb-ft199 lb-ft
Engine Size1,986 cc2,316 cc
0-60 mph11.5 sec8.0 sec
Top Speed115 mph130 mph
¼ Mile18.0 sec16.0 sec
Weight3,131 lbs
Wheelbase2,440 mm2,770 mm
Length4,395 mm4,850 mm
Units Produced47,484
Original MSRP$27,345
Value (Excellent)$60,000$15,000
Collectibility5/105/10
Rarity4/103/10
The Verdict

Numbers favor the 1990 Volvo 940 Turbo Estate with more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed. The 1961 Volvo P1800 S offers its unique character, and has its own devoted following. For those who let their heart decide, either car delivers a rewarding ownership experience.

Overview

Volvo has long offered a diverse lineup, and comparing the 1961 Volvo P1800 S with the 1990 Volvo 940 Turbo Estate highlights the breadth of the marque's engineering philosophy. The 1990 Volvo 940 Turbo Estate holds a clear advantage in raw power with 165 hp compared to 130 hp, a 35-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Volvo P1800 uses a Inline-4 OHV 8V displacing 1,986 cc, while the Volvo 940 Turbo relies on a Inline-4 Turbo SOHC with 2,316 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1990 Volvo 940 Turbo Estate edges ahead at 8.0 seconds versus 11.5 seconds. On the collector market, the 1961 Volvo P1800 S commands a significant premium over the 1990 Volvo 940 Turbo Estate, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity.