1982 Mercedes-Benz 380 vs. 2012 Nissan Frontier
To start off, 2012 Nissan Frontier is newer by 30 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 3,954 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Nissan Frontier is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Nissan Frontier (261 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 56 more horse power than 1982 Mercedes-Benz 380. (205 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Nissan Frontier should accelerate faster than 1982 Mercedes-Benz 380. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Nissan Frontier weights approximately 427 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 2012 Nissan Frontier 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, 2012 Nissan Frontier 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, 2012 Nissan Frontier (381 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 66 more torque (in Nm) than 1982 Mercedes-Benz 380. (315 Nm @ 3250 RPM). This means 2012 Nissan Frontier 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 2012 Nissan Frontier has manual transmission. 2012 Nissan Frontier 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 | 2012 Nissan Frontier | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Nissan |
| Model | 380 | Frontier |
| Year Released | 1982 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3839 cc | 3954 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 205 HP | 261 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 315 Nm | 381 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.4:1 | 16.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1615 kg | 2042 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5140 mm | 5230 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1790 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3080 mm | 3200 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 80 L |
