1996 Mercedes-Benz G vs. 1982 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 1996 Mercedes-Benz G is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1982 Volkswagen Polo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1982 Volkswagen Polo would be higher. At 3,199 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 Mercedes-Benz G is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Mercedes-Benz G (217 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 164 more horse power than 1982 Volkswagen Polo. (53 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Mercedes-Benz G should accelerate faster than 1982 Volkswagen Polo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Mercedes-Benz G weights approximately 1420 kg more than 1982 Volkswagen Polo. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 Mercedes-Benz G is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1982 Volkswagen Polo. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Mercedes-Benz G will offer significantly more control. 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, 1996 Mercedes-Benz G (300 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 204 more torque (in Nm) than 1982 Volkswagen Polo. (96 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 1996 Mercedes-Benz G will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1982 Volkswagen Polo. 1996 Mercedes-Benz G has automatic transmission and 1982 Volkswagen Polo has manual transmission. 1982 Volkswagen Polo will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1996 Mercedes-Benz G will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Mercedes-Benz G | 1982 Volkswagen Polo | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | G | Polo |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1982 |
| Body Type | SUV | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3199 cc | 1272 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 217 HP | 53 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 96 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 2150 kg | 730 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4690 mm | 3980 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1590 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1940 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2630 mm |
