2008 Dodge Ram vs. 1980 Mercedes-Benz 380
To start off, 2008 Dodge Ram is newer by 28 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 5,653 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Dodge Ram is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Dodge Ram (330 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 111 more horse power than 1980 Mercedes-Benz 380. (219 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Dodge Ram should accelerate faster than 1980 Mercedes-Benz 380. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1980 Mercedes-Benz 380 weights approximately 180 kg more than 2008 Dodge Ram.
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, 2008 Dodge Ram, 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, 2008 Dodge Ram (509 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 204 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Mercedes-Benz 380. (305 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 Dodge Ram will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Mercedes-Benz 380. 1980 Mercedes-Benz 380 has automatic transmission and 2008 Dodge Ram has manual transmission. 2008 Dodge Ram 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:
| 2008 Dodge Ram | 1980 Mercedes-Benz 380 | |
| Make | Dodge | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Ram | 380 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5653 cc | 3818 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 330 HP | 219 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 509 Nm | 305 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 6 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1360 kg | 1540 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 6350 mm | 4400 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2440 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1910 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 4080 mm | 2470 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 132 L | 90 L |
