1980 Mercedes-Benz 380 vs. 2011 Mercedes-Benz ML
To start off, 2011 Mercedes-Benz ML is newer by 31 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 8 more horse power than 2011 Mercedes-Benz ML. (210 HP @ 3800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1980 Mercedes-Benz 380 should accelerate faster than 2011 Mercedes-Benz ML. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Mercedes-Benz ML weights approximately 696 kg more than 1980 Mercedes-Benz 380.
Because 2011 Mercedes-Benz ML is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1980 Mercedes-Benz 380. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 Mercedes-Benz ML 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, 2011 Mercedes-Benz ML (542 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 237 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Mercedes-Benz 380. (305 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2011 Mercedes-Benz ML 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 | 2011 Mercedes-Benz ML | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 380 | ML |
| Year Released | 1980 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3818 cc | 3000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 218 HP | 210 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Torque | 305 Nm | 542 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1560 kg | 2256 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4760 mm | 4780 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1910 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1816 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2820 mm | 2913 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 95 L |
