1990 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 2012 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Polo is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 5,547 cc (8 cylinders), 1990 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1990 Mercedes-Benz S (297 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 193 more horse power than 2012 Volkswagen Polo. (104 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1990 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2012 Volkswagen Polo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1990 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 722 kg more than 2012 Volkswagen Polo. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1990 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 1990 Mercedes-Benz S. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 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, 1990 Mercedes-Benz S (463 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 288 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Volkswagen Polo. (175 Nm @ 1550 RPM). This means 1990 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Volkswagen Polo. 1990 Mercedes-Benz S has automatic transmission and 2012 Volkswagen Polo has manual transmission. 2012 Volkswagen Polo will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1990 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1990 Mercedes-Benz S | 2012 Volkswagen Polo | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | S | Polo |
| Year Released | 1990 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5547 cc | 1200 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 297 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 463 Nm | 175 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 1550 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1810 kg | 1088 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5030 mm | 3970 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1682 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1462 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2470 mm |
