1979 Mercedes-Benz 380 vs. 1996 Toyota Carina
To start off, 1996 Toyota Carina 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, 1979 Mercedes-Benz 380 (215 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 133 more horse power than 1996 Toyota Carina. (82 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1979 Mercedes-Benz 380 should accelerate faster than 1996 Toyota Carina.
Because 1979 Mercedes-Benz 380 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 1979 Mercedes-Benz 380. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Toyota Carina, 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. 1979 Mercedes-Benz 380 has automatic transmission and 1996 Toyota Carina has manual transmission. 1996 Toyota Carina 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 Toyota Carina | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Toyota |
| Model | 380 | Carina |
| Year Released | 1979 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3818 cc | 1997 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 215 HP | 82 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 23.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 216 km/hour | 190 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 5000 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1420 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 60 L |
