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 1,689 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Mercedes-Benz A is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Volkswagen Polo (79 HP) has 20 more horse power than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. (59 HP) 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 42 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 (195 Nm @ 2200 RPM) has 35 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Mercedes-Benz A | 2006 Volkswagen Polo | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | A | Polo |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1689 cc | 1422 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 79 HP |
| Torque | 160 Nm | 195 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1500 RPM | 2200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 79.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 19.5:1 | 19.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 153 km/hour | 174 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 17.3 seconds | 12.8 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1120 kg | 1162 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3580 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1580 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2470 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 4.5 L/100km | 4.6 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 45 L |
