1980 Mercedes-Benz 380 vs. 2003 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 23 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 5,439 cc (8 cylinders), 2003 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S (493 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 274 more horse power than 1980 Mercedes-Benz 380. (219 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1980 Mercedes-Benz 380. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 445 kg more than 1980 Mercedes-Benz 380. 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. Let's talk about torque, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S (700 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 395 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Mercedes-Benz 380. (305 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2003 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Mercedes-Benz 380.
Compare all specifications:
1980 Mercedes-Benz 380 | 2003 Mercedes-Benz S | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | 380 | S |
Year Released | 1980 | 2003 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3818 cc | 5439 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | V |
Horse Power | 219 HP | 493 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6100 RPM |
Torque | 305 Nm | 700 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2750 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 92 mm | 97 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 71.8 mm | 92 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
Top Speed | 204 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1540 kg | 1985 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4400 mm | 5050 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1860 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1450 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2970 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 88 L |