2004 Mercedes-Benz CL vs. 1980 Mercedes-Benz 380
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz CL 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 5,439 cc (12 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz CL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz CL (494 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 275 more horse power than 1980 Mercedes-Benz 380. (219 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz CL should accelerate faster than 1980 Mercedes-Benz 380. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz CL weights approximately 489 kg more than 1980 Mercedes-Benz 380. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Let's talk about torque, 2004 Mercedes-Benz CL (800 Nm) has 495 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Mercedes-Benz 380. (305 Nm). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz CL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Mercedes-Benz 380.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Mercedes-Benz CL | 1980 Mercedes-Benz 380 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | CL | 380 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5439 cc | 3818 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 494 HP | 219 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 800 Nm | 305 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 87 mm | 71.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2029 kg | 1540 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5000 mm | 4400 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2470 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 88 L | 90 L |
