1998 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 2010 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 2010 Volkswagen Polo is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 3,199 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mercedes-Benz S (221 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 137 more horse power than 2010 Volkswagen Polo. (84 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2010 Volkswagen Polo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 736 kg more than 2010 Volkswagen Polo. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1998 Mercedes-Benz S 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 1998 Mercedes-Benz S. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2010 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, 1998 Mercedes-Benz S (315 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 183 more torque (in Nm) than 2010 Volkswagen Polo. (132 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1998 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2010 Volkswagen Polo. 1998 Mercedes-Benz S has automatic transmission and 2010 Volkswagen Polo has manual transmission. 2010 Volkswagen Polo will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1998 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Mercedes-Benz S | 2010 Volkswagen Polo | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | S | Polo |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2010 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3199 cc | 1200 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 221 HP | 84 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 315 Nm | 132 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Top Speed | 240 km/hour | 177 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.2 seconds | 11.9 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1806 kg | 1070 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5160 mm | 3970 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1682 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1462 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2470 mm |
