2009 BMW Z4 vs. 1982 Mercedes-Benz 380
To start off, 2009 BMW Z4 is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1982 Mercedes-Benz 380. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1982 Mercedes-Benz 380 would be higher. At 3,839 cc (8 cylinders), 1982 Mercedes-Benz 380 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW Z4 (335 HP @ 7900 RPM) has 130 more horse power than 1982 Mercedes-Benz 380. (205 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW Z4 should accelerate faster than 1982 Mercedes-Benz 380. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1982 Mercedes-Benz 380 weights approximately 90 kg more than 2009 BMW Z4.
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, both vehicles can yield 315 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles. 1982 Mercedes-Benz 380 has automatic transmission and 2009 BMW Z4 has manual transmission. 2009 BMW Z4 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1982 Mercedes-Benz 380 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW Z4 | 1982 Mercedes-Benz 380 | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Z4 | 380 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1982 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2979 cc | 3839 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 335 HP | 205 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7900 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 315 Nm | 315 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 3250 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1525 kg | 1615 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4100 mm | 5140 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 3080 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 90 L |
