2005 Acura RL vs. 1980 Mercedes-Benz 380
To start off, 2005 Acura RL is newer by 25 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, 2005 Acura RL (300 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 82 more horse power than 1980 Mercedes-Benz 380. (218 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Acura RL should accelerate faster than 1980 Mercedes-Benz 380. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Acura RL weights approximately 200 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.
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, 2005 Acura RL, 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, 2005 Acura RL (353 Nm) has 48 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Mercedes-Benz 380. (305 Nm). This means 2005 Acura RL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Mercedes-Benz 380.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Acura RL | 1980 Mercedes-Benz 380 | |
| Make | Acura | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | RL | 380 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3474 cc | 3818 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 300 HP | 218 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 353 Nm | 305 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 93 mm | 71.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1760 kg | 1560 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4920 mm | 4760 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2810 mm | 2820 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 73 L | 90 L |
