2004 Lexus ES vs. 1979 Mercedes-Benz 380
To start off, 2004 Lexus ES is newer by 25 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, 2004 Lexus ES (216 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 1 more horse power than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 380. (215 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Lexus ES 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 27 kg more than 2004 Lexus ES.
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, 2004 Lexus ES, 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, 2004 Lexus ES (325 Nm) has 20 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 380. (305 Nm). This means 2004 Lexus ES will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 380.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Lexus ES | 1979 Mercedes-Benz 380 | |
| Make | Lexus | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | ES | 380 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3310 cc | 3818 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 216 HP | 215 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 325 Nm | 305 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 92 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83 mm | 71.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.8:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1569 kg | 1596 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4860 mm | 5000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2940 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 90 L |
