1982 Mercedes-Benz 380 vs. 2005 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 23 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 3,839 cc (8 cylinders), 1982 Mercedes-Benz 380 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz C (221 HP @ 3800 RPM) has 16 more horse power than 1982 Mercedes-Benz 380. (205 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1982 Mercedes-Benz 380. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 65 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.
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 C (400 Nm @ 1400 RPM) has 85 more torque (in Nm) than 1982 Mercedes-Benz 380. (315 Nm @ 3250 RPM). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1982 Mercedes-Benz 380. 1982 Mercedes-Benz 380 has automatic transmission and 2005 Mercedes-Benz C has manual transmission. 2005 Mercedes-Benz C will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1982 Mercedes-Benz 380 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1982 Mercedes-Benz 380 | 2005 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 380 | C |
| Year Released | 1982 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3839 cc | 2987 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 205 HP | 221 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Torque | 315 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 1400 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.4:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1615 kg | 1680 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5140 mm | 4550 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3080 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 62 L |
