2001 Mercedes-Benz A vs. 1982 Mercedes-Benz 380
To start off, 2001 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 19 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 3,839 cc (8 cylinders), 1982 Mercedes-Benz 380 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1982 Mercedes-Benz 380 (205 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 105 more horse power than 2001 Mercedes-Benz A. (100 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1982 Mercedes-Benz 380 should accelerate faster than 2001 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1982 Mercedes-Benz 380 weights approximately 545 kg more than 2001 Mercedes-Benz A. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1982 Mercedes-Benz 380 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1982 Mercedes-Benz 380. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 Mercedes-Benz A, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 1982 Mercedes-Benz 380 (315 Nm @ 3250 RPM) has 164 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Mercedes-Benz A. (151 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1982 Mercedes-Benz 380 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Mercedes-Benz A.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Mercedes-Benz A | 1982 Mercedes-Benz 380 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A | 380 |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1982 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 3839 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 205 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 151 Nm | 315 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3250 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1070 kg | 1615 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3780 mm | 5140 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1600 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 3080 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 90 L |
