1985 McLaren MP4 vs. 1980 Mercedes-Benz 500
To start off, 1985 McLaren MP4 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Mercedes-Benz 500. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Mercedes-Benz 500 would be higher. At 4,972 cc (8 cylinders), 1980 Mercedes-Benz 500 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1985 McLaren MP4 (987 HP @ 11500 RPM) has 745 more horse power than 1980 Mercedes-Benz 500. (242 HP @ 4750 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1985 McLaren MP4 should accelerate faster than 1980 Mercedes-Benz 500. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1980 Mercedes-Benz 500 weights approximately 1000 kg more than 1985 McLaren MP4.
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. 1980 Mercedes-Benz 500 has automatic transmission and 1985 McLaren MP4 has manual transmission. 1985 McLaren MP4 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1980 Mercedes-Benz 500 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 McLaren MP4 | 1980 Mercedes-Benz 500 | |
| Make | McLaren | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | MP4 | 500 |
| Year Released | 1985 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 1498 cc | 4972 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 987 HP | 242 HP |
| Engine RPM | 11500 RPM | 4750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 540 kg | 1540 kg |
