1979 Datsun 280 vs. 1982 Mercedes-Benz 380
To start off, 1982 Mercedes-Benz 380 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Datsun 280. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Datsun 280 would be higher. At 3,839 cc (8 cylinders), 1982 Mercedes-Benz 380 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1982 Mercedes-Benz 380 (205 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 65 more horse power than 1979 Datsun 280. (140 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1982 Mercedes-Benz 380 should accelerate faster than 1979 Datsun 280. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1982 Mercedes-Benz 380 weights approximately 410 kg more than 1979 Datsun 280. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1982 Mercedes-Benz 380 (315 Nm @ 3250 RPM) has 113 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Datsun 280. (202 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1982 Mercedes-Benz 380 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Datsun 280. 1982 Mercedes-Benz 380 has automatic transmission and 1979 Datsun 280 has manual transmission. 1979 Datsun 280 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1982 Mercedes-Benz 380 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Datsun 280 | 1982 Mercedes-Benz 380 | |
| Make | Datsun | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 280 | 380 |
| Year Released | 1979 | 1982 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2753 cc | 3839 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 140 HP | 205 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 202 Nm | 315 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3250 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79 mm | 78.9 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.3:1 | 9.4:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1205 kg | 1615 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 5140 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2330 mm | 3080 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 90 L |
