2001 BMW L7 vs. 1980 Mercedes-Benz 380
To start off, 2001 BMW L7 is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Mercedes-Benz 380. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Mercedes-Benz 380 would be higher. At 5,400 cc (12 cylinders), 2001 BMW L7 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 BMW L7 (328 HP @ 7400 RPM) has 109 more horse power than 1980 Mercedes-Benz 380. (219 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 BMW L7 should accelerate faster than 1980 Mercedes-Benz 380. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 BMW L7 weights approximately 10 kg more than 1980 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, 2001 BMW L7 (350 Nm) has 45 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Mercedes-Benz 380. (305 Nm). This means 2001 BMW L7 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Mercedes-Benz 380.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 BMW L7 | 1980 Mercedes-Benz 380 | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | L7 | 380 |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5400 cc | 3818 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 328 HP | 219 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7400 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 350 Nm | 305 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1550 kg | 1540 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2470 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 90 L |
