1978 Mercedes-Benz 240 vs. 1989 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 1989 Volkswagen Polo is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240 would be higher. At 2,398 cc (4 cylinders), 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240 (72 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 28 more horse power than 1989 Volkswagen Polo. (44 HP @ 4900 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240 should accelerate faster than 1989 Volkswagen Polo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240 weights approximately 725 kg more than 1989 Volkswagen Polo. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240 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 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 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, 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240 (137 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 61 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Volkswagen Polo. (76 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Volkswagen Polo.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240 | 1989 Volkswagen Polo | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | 240 | Polo |
| Year Released | 1978 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2398 cc | 1270 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 72 HP | 44 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 4900 RPM |
| Torque | 137 Nm | 76 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 8 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1565 kg | 840 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5360 mm | 3730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1590 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3430 mm | 2340 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 42 L |
