1980 Mercedes-Benz 380 vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz E
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz E is newer by 28 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 5,461 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz E (384 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 166 more horse power than 1980 Mercedes-Benz 380. (218 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 1980 Mercedes-Benz 380. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 320 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.
Because 2008 Mercedes-Benz E is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1980 Mercedes-Benz 380. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz E will offer significantly more control. 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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz E (530 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 225 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Mercedes-Benz 380. (305 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz E 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 | 2008 Mercedes-Benz E | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 380 | E |
| Year Released | 1980 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3818 cc | 5461 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 218 HP | 384 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 305 Nm | 530 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 92 mm | 98 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 71.8 mm | 90.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.7:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1560 kg | 1880 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4760 mm | 4860 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2820 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 80 L |
