1983 Volkswagen Polo vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz CL
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz CL is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Volkswagen Polo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Volkswagen Polo would be higher. At 4,663 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 Mercedes-Benz CL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mercedes-Benz CL (432 HP) has 393 more horse power than 1983 Volkswagen Polo. (39 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz CL should accelerate faster than 1983 Volkswagen Polo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mercedes-Benz CL weights approximately 1520 kg more than 1983 Volkswagen Polo. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2012 Mercedes-Benz CL 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 2012 Mercedes-Benz CL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1983 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, 2012 Mercedes-Benz CL (700 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 626 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Volkswagen Polo. (74 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz CL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Volkswagen Polo. 2012 Mercedes-Benz CL has automatic transmission and 1983 Volkswagen Polo has manual transmission. 1983 Volkswagen Polo will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Mercedes-Benz CL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1983 Volkswagen Polo | 2012 Mercedes-Benz CL | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Polo | CL |
| Year Released | 1983 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1043 cc | 4663 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 39 HP | 432 HP |
| Torque | 74 Nm | 700 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 700 kg | 2220 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3660 mm | 5095 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1872 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1417 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2954 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 90 L |
