2001 GMC Sonoma vs. 1979 Mercedes-Benz 380
To start off, 2001 GMC Sonoma is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Mercedes-Benz 380. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Mercedes-Benz 380 would be higher. At 3,818 cc (8 cylinders), 1979 Mercedes-Benz 380 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1979 Mercedes-Benz 380 (215 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 97 more horse power than 2001 GMC Sonoma. (118 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1979 Mercedes-Benz 380 should accelerate faster than 2001 GMC Sonoma. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Mercedes-Benz 380 weights approximately 126 kg more than 2001 GMC Sonoma. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2001 GMC Sonoma is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 380. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 GMC Sonoma 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, 1979 Mercedes-Benz 380 (305 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 115 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 GMC Sonoma. (190 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1979 Mercedes-Benz 380 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 GMC Sonoma. 1979 Mercedes-Benz 380 has automatic transmission and 2001 GMC Sonoma has manual transmission. 2001 GMC Sonoma will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1979 Mercedes-Benz 380 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 GMC Sonoma | 1979 Mercedes-Benz 380 | |
| Make | GMC | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Sonoma | 380 |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2194 cc | 3818 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 215 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 305 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1470 kg | 1596 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5210 mm | 5000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1600 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3130 mm | 2940 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 98 L | 90 L |
