2004 Mazda 2 vs. 1980 Mercedes-Benz 380
To start off, 2004 Mazda 2 is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Mercedes-Benz 380. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Mercedes-Benz 380 would be higher. At 3,818 cc (8 cylinders), 1980 Mercedes-Benz 380 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1980 Mercedes-Benz 380 (218 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 151 more horse power than 2004 Mazda 2. (67 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1980 Mercedes-Benz 380 should accelerate faster than 2004 Mazda 2. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mazda 2 weights approximately 225 kg more than 1980 Mercedes-Benz 380.
Because 1980 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 1980 Mercedes-Benz 380. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Mazda 2, 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, 1980 Mercedes-Benz 380 (305 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 145 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Mazda 2. (160 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 1980 Mercedes-Benz 380 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Mazda 2. 1980 Mercedes-Benz 380 has automatic transmission and 2004 Mazda 2 has manual transmission. 2004 Mazda 2 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1980 Mercedes-Benz 380 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Mazda 2 | 1980 Mercedes-Benz 380 | |
| Make | Mazda | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 2 | 380 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1399 cc | 3818 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 67 HP | 218 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 160 Nm | 305 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 73.7 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82 mm | 71.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1785 kg | 1560 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3930 mm | 4760 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1550 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2820 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 90 L |
