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 1,984 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Volkswagen Polo is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Volkswagen Polo (114 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 56 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.
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 75 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Volkswagen Polo. (85 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 1997 Mercedes-Benz A will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Volkswagen Polo. 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 | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 58 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3600 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 160 Nm | 85 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1500 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 82.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 92.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 19.5:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 150 km/hour | 193 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 18.8 seconds | 9.8 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| 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 |
