1998 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2007 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 2007 Volkswagen Polo is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 7,291 cc (12 cylinders), 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL (518 HP @ 5550 RPM) has 435 more horse power than 2007 Volkswagen Polo. (83 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2007 Volkswagen Polo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 961 kg more than 2007 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, 2007 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 (766 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 644 more torque (in Nm) than 2007 Volkswagen Polo. (122 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2007 Volkswagen Polo. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 2007 Volkswagen Polo has manual transmission. 2007 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 | 2007 Volkswagen Polo | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | SL | Polo |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2007 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 7291 cc | 1388 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 518 HP | 83 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5550 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 766 Nm | 122 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 91.5 mm | 75.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.4 mm | 76.5 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2050 kg | 1089 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4470 mm | 3920 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2470 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 45 L |
