Sweden vs Sweden — 1961 vs 1982
| P1800 S | 780 Bertone Turbo | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 130 hp | 182 hp |
| Torque | 127 lb-ft | 214 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 1,986 cc | 2,316 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 11.5 sec | 8.5 sec |
| Top Speed | 115 mph | 130 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 18.0 sec | 16.5 sec |
| Weight | — | 3,076 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,440 mm | 2,770 mm |
| Length | 4,395 mm | 4,785 mm |
| Units Produced | 47,484 | 8,518 |
| Original MSRP | — | $29,950 |
| Value (Excellent) | $60,000 | $25,000 |
| Collectibility | 5/10 | 6/10 |
| Rarity | 4/10 | 7/10 |
Numbers favor the 1982 Volvo 780 Bertone Turbo 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.
Volvo has long offered a diverse lineup, and comparing the 1961 Volvo P1800 S with the 1982 Volvo 780 Bertone Turbo highlights the breadth of the marque's engineering philosophy. The 1982 Volvo 780 Bertone Turbo holds a clear advantage in raw power with 182 hp compared to 130 hp, a 52-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 780 relies on a Inline-4 Turbo SOHC with 2,316 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1982 Volvo 780 Bertone Turbo edges ahead at 8.5 seconds versus 11.5 seconds. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 8,518 units built, the 1982 Volvo 780 Bertone Turbo is considerably scarcer than the Volvo P1800's 47,484 examples. On the collector market, the 1961 Volvo P1800 S commands a significant premium over the 1982 Volvo 780 Bertone Turbo, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity.