1973 Mercedes-Benz 220 vs. 2009 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 2009 Volkswagen Polo is newer by 36 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, 2009 Volkswagen Polo (83 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 25 more horse power than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 220. (58 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 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 287 kg more than 2009 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, 2009 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 4 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Volkswagen Polo. (122 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 1973 Mercedes-Benz 220 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Volkswagen Polo. 1973 Mercedes-Benz 220 has automatic transmission and 2009 Volkswagen Polo has manual transmission. 2009 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 | 2009 Volkswagen Polo | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | 220 | Polo |
| Year Released | 1973 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2197 cc | 1390 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 58 HP | 83 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 126 Nm | 122 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 2750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 75.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.4 mm | 76.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 21.5:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 130 km/hour | 176 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 29.1 seconds | 12.7 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1392 kg | 1105 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4690 mm | 3920 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 |
