Volvo 850

vs

Volvo P1800

Sweden vs Sweden — 1994 vs 2020

Volvo 850 (1994)
Volvo P1800 (2020)
Specifications
850 T-5RP1800 Cyan Racing
Horsepower240 hp420 hp
Torque243 lb-ft336 lb-ft
Engine Size2,319 cc1,969 cc
0-60 mph6.2 sec4.0 sec
Top Speed152 mph170 mph
¼ Mile14.7 sec12.0 sec
Weight3,263 lbs2,183 lbs
Wheelbase2,665 mm2,450 mm
Length4,660 mm4,380 mm
Units Produced6,614
Original MSRP$36,500$700,000
Value (Excellent)$50,000$1,200,000
Collectibility7/1010/10
Rarity7/1010/10
The Verdict

The 2020 Volvo P1800 Cyan Racing emerges ahead in most objective measures, offering more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed. The 1994 Volvo 850 T-5R counters with better value, 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.

Overview

The 1994 Volvo 850 T-5R and 2020 Volvo P1800 Cyan Racing 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 2020 Volvo P1800 Cyan Racing holds a clear advantage in raw power with 420 hp compared to 240 hp, a 180-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Volvo 850 uses a Inline-5 Turbo DOHC 20V displacing 2,319 cc, while the Volvo P1800 relies on a Inline-4 DOHC 16V Turbocharged with 1,969 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 2020 Volvo P1800 Cyan Racing edges ahead at 4.0 seconds versus 6.2 seconds. The Volvo P1800 carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 1080 lbs lighter. On the collector market, the 2020 Volvo P1800 Cyan Racing commands a significant premium over the 1994 Volvo 850 T-5R, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity. From a collectibility standpoint, the 2020 Volvo P1800 Cyan Racing rates higher among enthusiasts and auction houses.