1999 Mercedes-Benz ML vs. 1989 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 1999 Mercedes-Benz ML is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Volkswagen Polo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Volkswagen Polo would be higher. At 2,688 cc (5 cylinders), 1999 Mercedes-Benz ML is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Mercedes-Benz ML (161 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 117 more horse power than 1989 Volkswagen Polo. (44 HP @ 4900 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1999 Mercedes-Benz ML should accelerate faster than 1989 Volkswagen Polo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Mercedes-Benz ML weights approximately 640 kg more than 1989 Volkswagen Polo. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1999 Mercedes-Benz ML is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1989 Volkswagen Polo. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 Mercedes-Benz ML will offer significantly more control. 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, 1999 Mercedes-Benz ML (400 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 324 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Volkswagen Polo. (76 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1999 Mercedes-Benz ML will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Volkswagen Polo. 1999 Mercedes-Benz ML has automatic transmission and 1989 Volkswagen Polo has manual transmission. 1989 Volkswagen Polo will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1999 Mercedes-Benz ML will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Mercedes-Benz ML | 1989 Volkswagen Polo | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | ML | Polo |
| Year Released | 1999 | 1989 |
| Body Type | SUV | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2688 cc | 1272 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 161 HP | 44 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 4900 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 76 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1480 kg | 840 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 3660 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1590 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1830 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2340 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 72 L | 55 L |
