1978 Mercedes-Benz 280 vs. 2008 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Polo is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280 would be higher. At 2,746 cc (6 cylinders), 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280 is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280 weights approximately 266 kg more than 2008 Volkswagen Polo.
Because 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280 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 280. 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, 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280 (240 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 45 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Volkswagen Polo. (195 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Volkswagen Polo. 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280 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. 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280 | 2008 Volkswagen Polo | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | 280 | Polo |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2746 cc | 1422 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 182 HP | 0 HP |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 195 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 2200 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 19.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 190 km/hour | 174 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 10.8 seconds | 12.8 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1475 kg | 1209 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2470 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 45 L |
