1979 Mercedes-Benz 380 vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz ML
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz ML is newer by 29 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 48 more horse power than 2008 Mercedes-Benz ML. (167 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1979 Mercedes-Benz 380 should accelerate faster than 2008 Mercedes-Benz ML. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz ML weights approximately 579 kg more than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 380.
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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz ML (400 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 95 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 380. (305 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz ML 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 | 2008 Mercedes-Benz ML | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 380 | ML |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 3818 cc | 2685 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 215 HP | 167 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 305 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 92 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 71.8 mm | 88.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 216 km/hour | 185 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1596 kg | 2175 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5000 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1850 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2940 mm | 2830 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 83 L |
