Sweden vs Sweden — 1971 vs 1981
| 1800ES Standard | 242 Turbo Group A Homologation | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 135 hp | 155 hp |
| Torque | 129 lb-ft | 181 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 1,986 cc | 2,127 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 9.5 sec | 8.9 sec |
| Top Speed | 118 mph | 124 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 17.0 sec | 16.7 sec |
| Weight | 2,668 lbs | 2,932 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,450 mm | 2,640 mm |
| Length | 4,390 mm | 4,790 mm |
| Units Produced | 8,077 | — |
| Original MSRP | $5,275 | $16,495 |
| Value (Excellent) | $60,000 | $40,000 |
| Collectibility | 8/10 | 7/10 |
| Rarity | 7/10 | 7/10 |
Numbers favor the 1981 Volvo 242 Turbo Group A Homologation with more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed. The 1971 Volvo 1800ES Standard offers lighter weight, stronger collectibility, and has its own devoted following. For those who let their heart decide, either car delivers a rewarding ownership experience.
Volvo has long offered a diverse lineup, and comparing the 1971 Volvo 1800ES Standard with the 1981 Volvo 242 Turbo Group A Homologation highlights the breadth of the marque's engineering philosophy. The 1981 Volvo 242 Turbo Group A Homologation holds a clear advantage in raw power with 155 hp compared to 135 hp, a 20-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 242 Turbo relies on a Inline-4 Turbo SOHC with 2,127 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1981 Volvo 242 Turbo Group A Homologation edges ahead at 8.9 seconds versus 9.5 seconds. The Volvo 1800ES carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 264 lbs lighter. Each of these machines offers a unique window into the era that produced it, making both worthy of consideration by collectors and drivers alike.