1979 Mercedes-Benz 380 vs. 2008 Volvo S80
To start off, 2008 Volvo S80 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 30 more horse power than 2008 Volvo S80. (185 HP @ 6200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1979 Mercedes-Benz 380 should accelerate faster than 2008 Volvo S80. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Mercedes-Benz 380 weights approximately 15 kg more than 2008 Volvo S80. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2008 Volvo S80, 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. Let's talk about torque, 2008 Volvo S80 (320 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 15 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 380. (305 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 Volvo S80 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 Volvo S80 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volvo |
| Model | 380 | S80 |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3818 cc | 3192 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 215 HP | 185 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 305 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 92 mm | 84.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 71.8 mm | 96 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.8:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1596 kg | 1581 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5000 mm | 4250 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2940 mm | 2840 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 70 L |
