1979 Mercedes-Benz 380 vs. 1996 Porsche 993
To start off, 1996 Porsche 993 is newer by 17 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, 1996 Porsche 993 (283 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 68 more horse power than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 380. (215 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Porsche 993 should accelerate faster than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 380. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Mercedes-Benz 380 weights approximately 176 kg more than 1996 Porsche 993.
Because 1996 Porsche 993 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 380. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Porsche 993 will offer significantly more control. 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, 1996 Porsche 993 (341 Nm @ 5250 RPM) has 36 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 380. (305 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1996 Porsche 993 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 380. 1979 Mercedes-Benz 380 has automatic transmission and 1996 Porsche 993 has manual transmission. 1996 Porsche 993 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1979 Mercedes-Benz 380 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Mercedes-Benz 380 | 1996 Porsche 993 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Porsche |
| Model | 380 | 993 |
| Year Released | 1979 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 3818 cc | 3589 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | boxer |
| Horse Power | 215 HP | 283 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6100 RPM |
| Torque | 305 Nm | 341 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1596 kg | 1420 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5000 mm | 4250 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2940 mm | 2280 mm |
