1979 Mercedes-Benz 380 vs. 1981 Talbot Samba
To start off, 1981 Talbot Samba is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Mercedes-Benz 380. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Mercedes-Benz 380 would be higher. At 3,818 cc (8 cylinders), 1979 Mercedes-Benz 380 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1979 Mercedes-Benz 380 (215 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 171 more horse power than 1981 Talbot Samba. (44 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1979 Mercedes-Benz 380 should accelerate faster than 1981 Talbot Samba. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Mercedes-Benz 380 weights approximately 856 kg more than 1981 Talbot Samba. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Let's talk about torque, 1979 Mercedes-Benz 380 (305 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 240 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Talbot Samba. (65 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1979 Mercedes-Benz 380 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Talbot Samba.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Mercedes-Benz 380 | 1981 Talbot Samba | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Talbot |
| Model | 380 | Samba |
| Year Released | 1979 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3818 cc | 953 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 215 HP | 44 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 305 Nm | 65 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 92 mm | 70 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 71.8 mm | 62 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 8.8:1 |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1596 kg | 740 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5000 mm | 3520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1540 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2940 mm | 2350 mm |
