1974 Mercedes-Benz E vs. 2001 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 2001 Volkswagen Polo is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Mercedes-Benz E. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Mercedes-Benz E would be higher. At 1,987 cc (4 cylinders), 1974 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Volkswagen Polo (98 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 4 more horse power than 1974 Mercedes-Benz E. (94 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Volkswagen Polo should accelerate faster than 1974 Mercedes-Benz E. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 165 kg more than 2001 Volkswagen Polo.
Because 1974 Mercedes-Benz E 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 1974 Mercedes-Benz E. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 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, 2001 Volkswagen Polo (240 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 81 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Mercedes-Benz E. (159 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2001 Volkswagen Polo will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Mercedes-Benz E.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Mercedes-Benz E | 2001 Volkswagen Polo | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | E | Polo |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2001 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1987 cc | 1895 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 94 HP | 98 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 159 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.6 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1330 kg | 1165 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4700 mm | 3900 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2520 mm |
