1982 Mercedes-Benz 380 vs. 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton is newer by 26 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 4,921 cc (10 cylinders), 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton (309 HP @ 3750 RPM) has 104 more horse power than 1982 Mercedes-Benz 380. (205 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton should accelerate faster than 1982 Mercedes-Benz 380. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1982 Mercedes-Benz 380 weights approximately 379 kg more than 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton.
Because 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton 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, 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton 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 Volkswagen Phaeton (750 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 435 more torque (in Nm) than 1982 Mercedes-Benz 380. (315 Nm @ 3250 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton 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 | 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | 380 | Phaeton |
| Year Released | 1982 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3839 cc | 4921 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 10 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 205 HP | 309 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Torque | 315 Nm | 750 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 88 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.9 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.4:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1615 kg | 1236 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5140 mm | 5180 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1910 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3080 mm | 3010 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 90 L |
