1979 Mercedes-Benz 380 vs. 2009 Mercedes-Benz G
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz G is newer by 30 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 5,439 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz G is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz G (500 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 285 more horse power than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 380. (215 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz G 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 371 kg more than 2009 Mercedes-Benz G.
Because 2009 Mercedes-Benz G 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, 2009 Mercedes-Benz G 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, 2009 Mercedes-Benz G (700 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 395 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 380. (305 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz G 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 | 2009 Mercedes-Benz G | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 380 | G |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3818 cc | 5439 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 215 HP | 500 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6100 RPM |
| Torque | 305 Nm | 700 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2750 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1596 kg | 1225 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5000 mm | 4690 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1940 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2940 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 96 L |
