1980 Mercedes-Benz 380 vs. 1999 Volvo S70
To start off, 1999 Volvo S70 is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Mercedes-Benz 380. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Mercedes-Benz 380 would be higher. At 3,818 cc (8 cylinders), 1980 Mercedes-Benz 380 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Volvo S70 (238 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 1980 Mercedes-Benz 380. (218 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Volvo S70 should accelerate faster than 1980 Mercedes-Benz 380. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1980 Mercedes-Benz 380 weights approximately 60 kg more than 1999 Volvo S70.
Because 1980 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 1980 Mercedes-Benz 380. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 Volvo S70, 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, 1999 Volvo S70 (330 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 25 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Mercedes-Benz 380. (305 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1999 Volvo S70 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Mercedes-Benz 380. 1980 Mercedes-Benz 380 has automatic transmission and 1999 Volvo S70 has manual transmission. 1999 Volvo S70 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1980 Mercedes-Benz 380 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Mercedes-Benz 380 | 1999 Volvo S70 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volvo |
| Model | 380 | S70 |
| Year Released | 1980 | 1999 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3818 cc | 2317 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 218 HP | 238 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 305 Nm | 330 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 92 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 71.8 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 8.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1560 kg | 1500 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4760 mm | 4730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2820 mm | 2670 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 58 L |
