1980 Mercedes-Benz 380 vs. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK is newer by 24 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, 1980 Mercedes-Benz 380 (218 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 3 more horse power than 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK. (215 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1980 Mercedes-Benz 380 should accelerate faster than 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1980 Mercedes-Benz 380 weights approximately 145 kg more than 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK. 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, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK (311 Nm) has 6 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Mercedes-Benz 380. (305 Nm). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK 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 | 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 380 | SLK |
| Year Released | 1980 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3818 cc | 3196 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 218 HP | 215 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 305 Nm | 311 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 92 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 71.8 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1560 kg | 1415 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4760 mm | 4020 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2820 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 60 L |
