1980 Mercedes-Benz 380 vs. 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 25 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 4,966 cc (8 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL (302 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 84 more horse power than 1980 Mercedes-Benz 380. (218 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1980 Mercedes-Benz 380. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 285 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, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL (461 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 156 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Mercedes-Benz 380. (305 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL 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 | 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | 380 | SL |
Year Released | 1980 | 2005 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3818 cc | 4966 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | V |
Horse Power | 218 HP | 302 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
Torque | 305 Nm | 461 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2700 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 92 mm | 97 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 71.8 mm | 84 mm |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1560 kg | 1845 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4760 mm | 4540 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1830 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1300 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2820 mm | 2570 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 80 L |