2006 Mercedes-Benz A vs. 1980 Mercedes-Benz 380
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 26 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 (219 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 125 more horse power than 2006 Mercedes-Benz A. (94 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1980 Mercedes-Benz 380 should accelerate faster than 2006 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1980 Mercedes-Benz 380 weights approximately 345 kg more than 2006 Mercedes-Benz A. 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, 2006 Mercedes-Benz A, 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 165 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Mercedes-Benz A. (140 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1980 Mercedes-Benz 380 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Mercedes-Benz A. 1980 Mercedes-Benz 380 has automatic transmission and 2006 Mercedes-Benz A has manual transmission. 2006 Mercedes-Benz A 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:
2006 Mercedes-Benz A | 1980 Mercedes-Benz 380 | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | A | 380 |
Year Released | 2006 | 1980 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1498 cc | 3818 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 94 HP | 219 HP |
Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 140 Nm | 305 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 92 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 69.2 mm | 71.8 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
Top Speed | 175 km/hour | 204 km/hour |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1195 kg | 1540 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3840 mm | 4400 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1800 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1550 mm | 1310 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2470 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 90 L |