1979 Mercedes-Benz 230 vs. 2008 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Polo is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230 would be higher. At 2,298 cc (4 cylinders), 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230 (134 HP) has 60 more horse power than 2008 Volkswagen Polo. (74 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230 should accelerate faster than 2008 Volkswagen Polo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230 weights approximately 271 kg more than 2008 Volkswagen Polo. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230 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 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230. 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, 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230 (205 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 83 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Volkswagen Polo. (122 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Volkswagen Polo.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230 | 2008 Volkswagen Polo | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | 230 | Polo |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2298 cc | 1390 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 134 HP | 74 HP |
| Torque | 205 Nm | 122 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2750 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 180 km/hour | 171 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 11.5 seconds | 12.4 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1360 kg | 1089 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 3920 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2470 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.9 L/100km | 6.9 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 45 L |
