1981 Mercedes-Benz G vs. 2004 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 2004 Volkswagen Polo is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Mercedes-Benz G. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Mercedes-Benz G would be higher. At 2,307 cc (4 cylinders), 1981 Mercedes-Benz G is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 Mercedes-Benz G (125 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 51 more horse power than 2004 Volkswagen Polo. (74 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1981 Mercedes-Benz G should accelerate faster than 2004 Volkswagen Polo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Mercedes-Benz G weights approximately 676 kg more than 2004 Volkswagen Polo. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1981 Mercedes-Benz G is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2004 Volkswagen Polo. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1981 Mercedes-Benz G will offer significantly more control. 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, 2004 Volkswagen Polo (335 Nm @ 2200 RPM) has 142 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Mercedes-Benz G. (193 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2004 Volkswagen Polo will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Mercedes-Benz G.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Mercedes-Benz G | 2004 Volkswagen Polo | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | G | Polo |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2307 cc | 1421 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 125 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 193 Nm | 335 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 95.5 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80.2 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1880 kg | 1204 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4240 mm | 4170 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1940 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2470 mm |
