1997 Mercedes-Benz A vs. 2006 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 2006 Volkswagen Polo is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Mercedes-Benz A would be higher. At 1,779 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Volkswagen Polo is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Volkswagen Polo (148 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 90 more horse power than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. (58 HP @ 3600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Volkswagen Polo should accelerate faster than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Volkswagen Polo weights approximately 44 kg more than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. 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, 2006 Volkswagen Polo (220 Nm @ 1950 RPM) has 60 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. (160 Nm @ 1500 RPM). This means 2006 Volkswagen Polo will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. 1997 Mercedes-Benz A has automatic transmission and 2006 Volkswagen Polo has manual transmission. 2006 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 | 2006 Volkswagen Polo | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | A | Polo |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1689 cc | 1779 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 58 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3600 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 160 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1500 RPM | 1950 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 19.5:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 150 km/hour | 216 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 18.8 seconds | 8.2 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1120 kg | 1164 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3580 mm | 3920 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1580 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2470 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 45 L |
