1980 Mercedes-Benz 380 vs. 1961 Volkswagen 1500
To start off, 1980 Mercedes-Benz 380 is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1961 Volkswagen 1500. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1961 Volkswagen 1500 would be higher. At 3,818 cc (8 cylinders), 1980 Mercedes-Benz 380 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1980 Mercedes-Benz 380 (218 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 166 more horse power than 1961 Volkswagen 1500. (52 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1980 Mercedes-Benz 380 should accelerate faster than 1961 Volkswagen 1500. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1980 Mercedes-Benz 380 weights approximately 700 kg more than 1961 Volkswagen 1500. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Mercedes-Benz 380 | 1961 Volkswagen 1500 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | 380 | 1500 |
| Year Released | 1980 | 1961 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 3818 cc | 1493 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 218 HP | 52 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1560 kg | 860 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4760 mm | 4230 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2820 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 40 L |
