1993 Mercedes-Benz 280 vs. 1976 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 1993 Mercedes-Benz 280 is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Volkswagen Polo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Volkswagen Polo would be higher. At 2,799 cc (6 cylinders), 1993 Mercedes-Benz 280 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1993 Mercedes-Benz 280 (197 HP) has 158 more horse power than 1976 Volkswagen Polo. (39 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1993 Mercedes-Benz 280 should accelerate faster than 1976 Volkswagen Polo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1993 Mercedes-Benz 280 weights approximately 960 kg more than 1976 Volkswagen Polo. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1993 Mercedes-Benz 280 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 1993 Mercedes-Benz 280. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1976 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, 1993 Mercedes-Benz 280 (270 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 196 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Volkswagen Polo. (74 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 1993 Mercedes-Benz 280 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Volkswagen Polo.
Compare all specifications:
| 1993 Mercedes-Benz 280 | 1976 Volkswagen Polo | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | 280 | Polo |
| Year Released | 1993 | 1976 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2799 cc | 1043 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 39 HP |
| Torque | 270 Nm | 74 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89.9 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 73.5 mm | 59 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 213 km/hour | 135 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1660 kg | 700 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4770 mm | 3660 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1590 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1500 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2410 mm |
