1997 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 1976 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 1997 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Volkswagen Polo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Volkswagen Polo would be higher. At 4,266 cc (8 cylinders), 1997 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Mercedes-Benz C (303 HP @ 5850 RPM) has 264 more horse power than 1976 Volkswagen Polo. (39 HP @ 5900 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1976 Volkswagen Polo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 880 kg more than 1976 Volkswagen Polo. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1997 Mercedes-Benz C is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1997 Mercedes-Benz C. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1976 Volkswagen Polo, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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 C (410 Nm @ 3250 RPM) has 353 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Volkswagen Polo. (57 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1997 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Volkswagen Polo. 1997 Mercedes-Benz C has automatic transmission and 1976 Volkswagen Polo has manual transmission. 1976 Volkswagen Polo will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1997 Mercedes-Benz C will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1997 Mercedes-Benz C | 1976 Volkswagen Polo | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
Model | C | Polo |
Year Released | 1997 | 1976 |
Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 4266 cc | 895 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 303 HP | 39 HP |
Engine RPM | 5850 RPM | 5900 RPM |
Torque | 410 Nm | 57 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 3500 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 89.9 mm | 69.5 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 59 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 8.2:1 |
Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 135 km/hour |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1570 kg | 690 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4520 mm | 3510 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1570 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1340 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2340 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 69 L | 35 L |