1979 Mercedes-Benz 380 vs. 2012 Volvo S80
To start off, 2012 Volvo S80 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 3,818 cc (8 cylinders), 1979 Mercedes-Benz 380 is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volvo S80 weights approximately 163 kg more than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 380.
Because 2012 Volvo S80 is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 380. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Volvo S80 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 Volvo S80 (400 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 95 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 380. (305 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2012 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 | 2012 Volvo S80 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volvo |
| Model | 380 | S80 |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3818 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 215 HP | 0 HP |
| Torque | 305 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1596 kg | 1759 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5000 mm | 4628 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1864 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1483 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2940 mm | 2776 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 67 L |
