1979 Mercedes-Benz 380 vs. 2003 Ford F-150
To start off, 2003 Ford F-150 is newer by 24 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 4,195 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Ford F-150 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1979 Mercedes-Benz 380 (215 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 13 more horse power than 2003 Ford F-150. (202 HP @ 4750 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1979 Mercedes-Benz 380 should accelerate faster than 2003 Ford F-150. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Ford F-150 weights approximately 479 kg more than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 380.
Because 2003 Ford F-150 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, 2003 Ford F-150 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, 2003 Ford F-150 (338 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 33 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 380. (305 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2003 Ford F-150 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 380.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Mercedes-Benz 380 | 2003 Ford F-150 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Ford |
| Model | 380 | F-150 |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3818 cc | 4195 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 215 HP | 202 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4750 RPM |
| Torque | 305 Nm | 338 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1596 kg | 2075 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5000 mm | 5230 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 2000 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1850 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2940 mm | 3050 mm |
