1998 Mercedes-Benz SLK 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 SLK. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Mercedes-Benz SLK would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Mercedes-Benz SLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SLK (134 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 30 more horse power than 2010 Volkswagen Polo. (104 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 2010 Volkswagen Polo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SLK weights approximately 182 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 SLK 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 SLK. 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 SLK (190 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 15 more torque (in Nm) than 2010 Volkswagen Polo. (175 Nm @ 1550 RPM). This means 1998 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2010 Volkswagen Polo.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Mercedes-Benz SLK | 2010 Volkswagen Polo | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | SLK | Polo |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2010 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 1200 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 134 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 175 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1550 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 231 km/hour | 190 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1270 kg | 1088 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 3970 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1682 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1462 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2470 mm |
