1991 Volkswagen Polo vs. 2009 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1991 Volkswagen Polo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1991 Volkswagen Polo would be higher. At 2,148 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C (168 HP @ 3800 RPM) has 125 more horse power than 1991 Volkswagen Polo. (43 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1991 Volkswagen Polo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 780 kg more than 1991 Volkswagen Polo. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 Mercedes-Benz C 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 2009 Mercedes-Benz C. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1991 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, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C (400 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 324 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Volkswagen Polo. (76 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 Volkswagen Polo. 2009 Mercedes-Benz C has automatic transmission and 1991 Volkswagen Polo has manual transmission. 1991 Volkswagen Polo will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Mercedes-Benz C will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1991 Volkswagen Polo | 2009 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Polo | C |
| Year Released | 1991 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1043 cc | 2148 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 43 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Torque | 76 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 17.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 20.3 seconds | 8.9 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 850 kg | 1630 kg |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 66 L |
