1997 Mercedes-Benz A vs. 2008 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Polo is newer by 11 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 1,781 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Volkswagen Polo is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volkswagen Polo (148 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 47 more horse power than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. (101 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Polo should accelerate faster than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen Polo weights approximately 144 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, 2008 Volkswagen Polo (221 Nm @ 1950 RPM) has 71 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. (150 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 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 | 2008 Volkswagen Polo | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | A | Polo |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 1781 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 101 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 150 Nm | 221 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1950 RPM |
| Top Speed | 180 km/hour | 216 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1020 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 |
