1973 Mercedes-Benz 450 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 450. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Mercedes-Benz 450 would be higher. At 4,520 cc (8 cylinders), 1973 Mercedes-Benz 450 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1973 Mercedes-Benz 450 (217 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 117 more horse power than 2009 Volkswagen Polo. (100 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1973 Mercedes-Benz 450 should accelerate faster than 2009 Volkswagen Polo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Volkswagen Polo weights approximately 542 kg more than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 450.
Because 1973 Mercedes-Benz 450 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 450. 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 450 (359 Nm @ 3250 RPM) has 219 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Volkswagen Polo. (140 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 1973 Mercedes-Benz 450 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Volkswagen Polo. 1973 Mercedes-Benz 450 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 450 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Mercedes-Benz 450 | 2009 Volkswagen Polo | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | 450 | Polo |
| Year Released | 1973 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4520 cc | 1597 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 217 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 359 Nm | 140 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.8:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1765 kg | 2307 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5070 mm | 3920 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2970 mm | 2470 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 95 L | 45 L |
