1980 Mercedes-Benz 380 vs. 2009 Volkswagen T5
To start off, 2009 Volkswagen T5 is newer by 29 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 46 more horse power than 2009 Volkswagen T5. (172 HP @ 3500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1980 Mercedes-Benz 380 should accelerate faster than 2009 Volkswagen T5. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Volkswagen T5 weights approximately 750 kg more than 1980 Mercedes-Benz 380.
Because 2009 Volkswagen T5 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, 2009 Volkswagen T5 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, 2009 Volkswagen T5 (400 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 95 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Mercedes-Benz 380. (305 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 Volkswagen T5 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 2009 Volkswagen T5 has manual transmission. 2009 Volkswagen T5 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 | 2009 Volkswagen T5 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | 380 | T5 |
| Year Released | 1980 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3818 cc | 2459 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 218 HP | 172 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Torque | 305 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 92 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 71.8 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1560 kg | 2310 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4760 mm | 4900 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1980 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1910 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2820 mm | 3010 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 80 L |
