1982 Mercedes-Benz 380 vs. 2013 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2013 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 31 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 5,500 cc (8 cylinders), 2013 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Mercedes-Benz S (529 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 324 more horse power than 1982 Mercedes-Benz 380. (205 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1982 Mercedes-Benz 380. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 555 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, 2013 Mercedes-Benz S (800 Nm @ 4300 RPM) has 485 more torque (in Nm) than 1982 Mercedes-Benz 380. (315 Nm @ 3250 RPM). This means 2013 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 | 2013 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 380 | S |
| Year Released | 1982 | 2013 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3839 cc | 5500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 205 HP | 529 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 315 Nm | 800 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 4300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 88 mm | 98 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.9 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.4:1 | 10.0 : 1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | CVT |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1615 kg | 2170 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5140 mm | 5252 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 2120 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1488 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3080 mm | 3165 mm |
