1997 Mercedes-Benz A vs. 1987 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 1997 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 Volkswagen Polo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 Volkswagen Polo would be higher. At 1,689 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Mercedes-Benz A is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Mercedes-Benz A (58 HP @ 3600 RPM) has 14 more horse power than 1987 Volkswagen Polo. (44 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Mercedes-Benz A should accelerate faster than 1987 Volkswagen Polo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 350 kg more than 1987 Volkswagen Polo. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1997 Mercedes-Benz A (160 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 64 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Volkswagen Polo. (96 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1997 Mercedes-Benz A will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Volkswagen Polo. 1997 Mercedes-Benz A has automatic transmission and 1987 Volkswagen Polo has manual transmission. 1987 Volkswagen Polo will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1997 Mercedes-Benz A will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Mercedes-Benz A | 1987 Volkswagen Polo | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | A | Polo |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1987 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1689 cc | 1043 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 58 HP | 44 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3600 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 160 Nm | 96 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1500 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1120 kg | 770 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3580 mm | 3660 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1590 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1580 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2340 mm |
