1988 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 2007 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 2007 Volkswagen Polo is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 4,973 cc (8 cylinders), 1988 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 Mercedes-Benz S (261 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 198 more horse power than 2007 Volkswagen Polo. (63 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1988 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2007 Volkswagen Polo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 541 kg more than 2007 Volkswagen Polo. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1988 Mercedes-Benz S 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 1988 Mercedes-Benz S. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2007 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, 1988 Mercedes-Benz S (405 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 293 more torque (in Nm) than 2007 Volkswagen Polo. (112 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1988 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2007 Volkswagen Polo. 1988 Mercedes-Benz S has automatic transmission and 2007 Volkswagen Polo has manual transmission. 2007 Volkswagen Polo will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1988 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Mercedes-Benz S | 2007 Volkswagen Polo | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | S | Polo |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2007 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4973 cc | 1197 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 261 HP | 63 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 405 Nm | 112 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 96.5 mm | 76.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 86.9 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1626 kg | 1085 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5030 mm | 3920 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2470 mm |
