1998 Volvo S80 vs. 1973 Volvo 1800
To start off, 1998 Volvo S80 is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Volvo 1800. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Volvo 1800 would be higher. At 1,986 cc (4 cylinders), 1973 Volvo 1800 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Volvo S80 (178 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 82 more horse power than 1973 Volvo 1800. (96 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Volvo S80 should accelerate faster than 1973 Volvo 1800. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Volvo S80 weights approximately 391 kg more than 1973 Volvo 1800. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1973 Volvo 1800 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1973 Volvo 1800. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Volvo S80, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 1998 Volvo S80 (240 Nm @ 2200 RPM) has 86 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Volvo 1800. (154 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1998 Volvo S80 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Volvo 1800.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Volvo S80 | 1973 Volvo 1800 | |
| Make | Volvo | Volvo |
| Model | S80 | 1800 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1973 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1983 cc | 1986 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 178 HP | 96 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 154 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2200 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 1581 kg | 1190 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4830 mm | 4400 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2460 mm |
