1982 Mercedes-Benz 380 vs. 2004 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1982 Mercedes-Benz 380. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1982 Mercedes-Benz 380 would be higher. At 4,264 cc (8 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz S (275 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 70 more horse power than 1982 Mercedes-Benz 380. (205 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1982 Mercedes-Benz 380. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 435 kg more than 1982 Mercedes-Benz 380. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 Mercedes-Benz S is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1982 Mercedes-Benz 380. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz S 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, 2004 Mercedes-Benz S (400 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 85 more torque (in Nm) than 1982 Mercedes-Benz 380. (315 Nm @ 3250 RPM). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1982 Mercedes-Benz 380.
Compare all specifications:
| 1982 Mercedes-Benz 380 | 2004 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 380 | S |
| Year Released | 1982 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3839 cc | 4264 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 205 HP | 275 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 315 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 88 mm | 89.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.9 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.4:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1615 kg | 2050 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5140 mm | 5050 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3080 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 88 L |
