1998 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 1976 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 22 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 2,799 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL (204 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 165 more horse power than 1976 Volkswagen Polo. (39 HP @ 5900 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1976 Volkswagen Polo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 1120 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 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL 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 SL. 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, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL (270 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 213 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Volkswagen Polo. (57 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Volkswagen Polo. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL 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. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1998 Mercedes-Benz SL | 1976 Volkswagen Polo | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
Model | SL | Polo |
Year Released | 1998 | 1976 |
Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2799 cc | 895 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 204 HP | 39 HP |
Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 5900 RPM |
Torque | 270 Nm | 57 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 89.9 mm | 69.5 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 73.5 mm | 59 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.1:1 | 8.2:1 |
Top Speed | 228 km/hour | 135 km/hour |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1810 kg | 690 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 3510 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1570 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1340 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2340 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 35 L |