Sweden vs Sweden — 1961 vs 1977
| P1800 1800S | 262C Bertone Coupe | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 118 hp | 140 hp |
| Torque | 125 lb-ft | 159 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 1,986 cc | 2,664 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 11.5 sec | 11.5 sec |
| Top Speed | 112 mph | 109 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 17.9 sec | 18.0 sec |
| Weight | 2,403 lbs | 3,240 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,450 mm | 2,640 mm |
| Length | 4,369 mm | 4,870 mm |
| Units Produced | 47,484 | 6,622 |
| Original MSRP | $4,000 | $17,750 |
| Value (Excellent) | $70,000 | $45,000 |
| Collectibility | 7/10 | 7/10 |
| Rarity | 5/10 | 7/10 |
The 1977 Volvo 262C Bertone Coupe emerges ahead in most objective measures, offering more power, quicker acceleration, greater rarity. The 1961 Volvo P1800 1800S counters with higher top speed, 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.
The 1961 Volvo P1800 1800S and 1977 Volvo 262C Bertone Coupe 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 1977 Volvo 262C Bertone Coupe holds a clear advantage in raw power with 140 hp compared to 118 hp, a 22-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 262C relies on a V6 OHV with 2,664 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1977 Volvo 262C Bertone Coupe edges ahead at 11.5 seconds versus 11.5 seconds. The Volvo P1800 carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 837 lbs lighter. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 6,622 units built, the 1977 Volvo 262C Bertone Coupe is considerably scarcer than the Volvo P1800's 47,484 examples.