1989 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 1998 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 1998 Volkswagen Polo is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 2,599 cc (6 cylinders), 1989 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Mercedes-Benz S (164 HP @ 4600 RPM) has 90 more horse power than 1998 Volkswagen Polo. (74 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1989 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1998 Volkswagen Polo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 530 kg more than 1998 Volkswagen Polo. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1989 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 1989 Mercedes-Benz S. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 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, 1989 Mercedes-Benz S (228 Nm @ 4600 RPM) has 93 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Volkswagen Polo. (135 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 1989 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Volkswagen Polo.
Compare all specifications:
1989 Mercedes-Benz S | 1998 Volkswagen Polo | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
Model | S | Polo |
Year Released | 1989 | 1998 |
Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2599 cc | 1598 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 164 HP | 74 HP |
Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 4800 RPM |
Torque | 228 Nm | 135 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4600 RPM | 2800 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1520 kg | 990 kg |
Vehicle Length | 5030 mm | 4150 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1650 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1440 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2410 mm |