2003 Alfa Romeo GTV vs. 1979 Mercedes-Benz 380
To start off, 2003 Alfa Romeo GTV is newer by 24 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, 2003 Alfa Romeo GTV (247 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 32 more horse power than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 380. (215 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Alfa Romeo GTV should accelerate faster than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 380. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Mercedes-Benz 380 weights approximately 181 kg more than 2003 Alfa Romeo GTV.
Because 1979 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 1979 Mercedes-Benz 380. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Alfa Romeo GTV, 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, both vehicles can yield 305 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles. 1979 Mercedes-Benz 380 has automatic transmission and 2003 Alfa Romeo GTV has manual transmission. 2003 Alfa Romeo GTV 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:
| 2003 Alfa Romeo GTV | 1979 Mercedes-Benz 380 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | GTV | 380 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3178 cc | 3818 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 247 HP | 215 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 305 Nm | 305 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 93 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78 mm | 71.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1415 kg | 1596 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4310 mm | 5000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2940 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 90 L |
