Sweden vs Sweden — 1961 vs 1981
| P1800 1800S | 240 Turbo Wagon | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 118 hp | 155 hp |
| Torque | 125 lb-ft | — |
| Engine Size | 1,986 cc | 2,316 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 11.5 sec | — |
| Top Speed | 112 mph | — |
| ¼ Mile | 17.9 sec | — |
| Weight | 2,403 lbs | — |
| Wheelbase | 2,450 mm | 2,640 mm |
| Length | 4,369 mm | 4,790 mm |
| Units Produced | 47,484 | — |
| Original MSRP | $4,000 | — |
| Value (Excellent) | $70,000 | $22,000 |
| Collectibility | 7/10 | 5/10 |
| Rarity | 5/10 | 10/10 |
It's a closely fought contest. The 1961 Volvo P1800 1800S brings stronger collectibility to the table, and the 1981 Volvo 240 Turbo Wagon answers with more power, better value. Both are excellent machines that reward their owners in different ways — there's no wrong answer here.
Volvo has long offered a diverse lineup, and comparing the 1961 Volvo P1800 1800S with the 1981 Volvo 240 Turbo Wagon highlights the breadth of the marque's engineering philosophy. The 1981 Volvo 240 Turbo Wagon holds a clear advantage in raw power with 155 hp compared to 118 hp, a 37-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 240 relies on a Inline-4 with 2,316 cc. On the collector market, the 1961 Volvo P1800 1800S commands a significant premium over the 1981 Volvo 240 Turbo Wagon, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity. From a collectibility standpoint, the 1961 Volvo P1800 1800S rates higher among enthusiasts and auction houses.