1973 Mercedes-Benz 220 vs. 2008 Volkswagen Polo

To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Polo is newer by 35 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Mercedes-Benz 220. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Mercedes-Benz 220 would be higher. At 2,197 cc (4 cylinders), 1973 Mercedes-Benz 220 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volkswagen Polo (63 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 5 more horse power than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 220. (58 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Polo should accelerate faster than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 220. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1973 Mercedes-Benz 220 weights approximately 307 kg more than 2008 Volkswagen Polo.

Because 1973 Mercedes-Benz 220 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 1973 Mercedes-Benz 220. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Polo, 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, 1973 Mercedes-Benz 220 (126 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 14 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Volkswagen Polo. (112 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1973 Mercedes-Benz 220 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Volkswagen Polo. 1973 Mercedes-Benz 220 has automatic transmission and 2008 Volkswagen Polo has manual transmission. 2008 Volkswagen Polo will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1973 Mercedes-Benz 220 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1973 Mercedes-Benz 220 2008 Volkswagen Polo
Make Mercedes-Benz Volkswagen
Model 220 Polo
Year Released 1973 2008
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2197 cc 1198 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 3 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Valves per Cylinder 2 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 58 HP 63 HP
Engine RPM 4200 RPM 5400 RPM
Torque 126 Nm 112 Nm
Torque RPM 2400 RPM 3000 RPM
Engine Bore Size 87 mm 76.5 mm
Engine Stroke Size 92.4 mm 86.9 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 21.5:1 10.5:1
Top Speed 130 km/hour 162 km/hour
Acceleration 0-100mph 29.1 seconds 14.9 seconds
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Automatic Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 3 doors
Vehicle Weight 1392 kg 1085 kg
Vehicle Length 4690 mm 3900 mm
Vehicle Width 1780 mm 1660 mm
Vehicle Height 1450 mm 1470 mm
Wheelbase Size 2760 mm 2470 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 65 L 45 L