1979 Mercedes-Benz 380 vs. 2012 Chevrolet Avalanche
To start off, 2012 Chevrolet Avalanche is newer by 33 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 5,300 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 Chevrolet Avalanche is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Chevrolet Avalanche (310 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 95 more horse power than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 380. (215 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Chevrolet Avalanche 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 335 kg more than 2012 Chevrolet Avalanche.
Because 2012 Chevrolet Avalanche 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, 2012 Chevrolet Avalanche 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, 2012 Chevrolet Avalanche (455 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 150 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 380. (305 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2012 Chevrolet Avalanche 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 | 2012 Chevrolet Avalanche | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Chevrolet |
| Model | 380 | Avalanche |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3818 cc | 5300 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 215 HP | 310 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 305 Nm | 455 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 6 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1596 kg | 1261 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5000 mm | 5630 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 2020 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1950 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2940 mm | 3310 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 117 L |
