What was the Mercedes-Benz 380?
The Mercedes-Benz 380 name appeared on two very different cars in the United States: the 380 SL roadster and 380-series S-Class saloons. The SL offered open-air touring, while the S-Class was a large four-door saloon built for comfort. Together, they show how one engine size served two distinct roles in the Mercedes-Benz range.
The R107 SL was part of a long-running line of Mercedes-Benz open sports cars. The W126 was an S-Class generation offered as both a saloon and a coupé. Each brought its own character to the 380 name.
Generations and engines
The 380 SL belonged to the R107 generation, while the 380 S-Class was part of the W126 generation. Both appear in US listings for 1984–1985. One was an open roadster; the other was a spacious saloon.
The US EPA listing gives the 380 a 3.8 L petrol engine and a combined rating of 15 MPG. EPA results use a different test procedure from European WLTP or NEDC figures and Canada’s 5-cycle ratings.
Where was the 380 sold?
The US-market 380 versions were listed for 1984–1985. The R107 SL and W126 S-Class were part of Mercedes-Benz’s wider model range, but the figures here are for the United States and use the EPA test procedure.
Questions and answers
Was the Mercedes-Benz 380 a roadster or a saloon?
Both: the name covered the R107 380 SL roadster and W126 380 S-Class saloons in the United States.
What engine and fuel economy did the US 380 have?
The US EPA listing gives a 3.8 L petrol engine and a combined rating of 15 MPG.
Which generations included the 380?
The 380 SL belonged to the R107 generation, and the S-Class versions belonged to the W126 generation. Both appear in US listings for 1984–1985.
