1997 Mercedes-Benz A vs. 2011 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 2011 Volkswagen Polo is newer by 14 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, 2011 Volkswagen Polo (69 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 11 more horse power than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. (58 HP @ 3600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Volkswagen Polo should accelerate faster than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 53 kg more than 2011 Volkswagen Polo.
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 48 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Volkswagen Polo. (112 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1997 Mercedes-Benz A will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Volkswagen Polo. 1997 Mercedes-Benz A has automatic transmission and 2011 Volkswagen Polo has manual transmission. 2011 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 | 2011 Volkswagen Polo | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | A | Polo |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1689 cc | 1200 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 58 HP | 69 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3600 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 160 Nm | 112 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Top Speed | 150 km/hour | 165 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 18.8 seconds | 14.1 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1120 kg | 1067 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3580 mm | 3970 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1682 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1580 mm | 1462 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2470 mm |
