2003 BMW 330 vs. 1979 Mercedes-Benz 380
To start off, 2003 BMW 330 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, 1979 Mercedes-Benz 380 (215 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 26 more horse power than 2003 BMW 330. (189 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1979 Mercedes-Benz 380 should accelerate faster than 2003 BMW 330. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Mercedes-Benz 380 weights approximately 56 kg more than 2003 BMW 330. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 BMW 330 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, 2003 BMW 330 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, 2003 BMW 330 (400 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 95 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 380. (305 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2003 BMW 330 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 380. 1979 Mercedes-Benz 380 has automatic transmission and 2003 BMW 330 has manual transmission. 2003 BMW 330 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 BMW 330 | 1979 Mercedes-Benz 380 | |
Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | 330 | 380 |
Year Released | 2003 | 1979 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2977 cc | 3818 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 189 HP | 215 HP |
Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 400 Nm | 305 Nm |
Torque RPM | 1500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 92 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 71.8 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 9.0:1 |
Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1540 kg | 1596 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 5000 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1830 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1440 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2940 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 90 L |