2005 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 1980 Mercedes-Benz 380
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz S 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 5,980 cc (12 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz S (603 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 384 more horse power than 1980 Mercedes-Benz 380. (219 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1980 Mercedes-Benz 380. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 680 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.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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 Mercedes-Benz S (998 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 693 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Mercedes-Benz 380. (305 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Mercedes-Benz 380.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Mercedes-Benz S | 1980 Mercedes-Benz 380 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | S | 380 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5980 cc | 3818 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 603 HP | 219 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 998 Nm | 305 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.7 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 93 mm | 71.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2220 kg | 1540 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5050 mm | 4400 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3090 mm | 2470 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 90 L |
