1999 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 1982 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 1999 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1982 Volkswagen Polo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1982 Volkswagen Polo would be higher. At 5,439 cc (8 cylinders), 1999 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Mercedes-Benz S (356 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 303 more horse power than 1982 Volkswagen Polo. (53 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1999 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1982 Volkswagen Polo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 1175 kg more than 1982 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 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 1999 Mercedes-Benz S. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1982 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, 1999 Mercedes-Benz S (530 Nm @ 3150 RPM) has 434 more torque (in Nm) than 1982 Volkswagen Polo. (96 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 1999 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1982 Volkswagen Polo. 1999 Mercedes-Benz S has automatic transmission and 1982 Volkswagen Polo has manual transmission. 1982 Volkswagen Polo will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1999 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Mercedes-Benz S | 1982 Volkswagen Polo | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | S | Polo |
| Year Released | 1999 | 1982 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5439 cc | 1272 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 356 HP | 53 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 530 Nm | 96 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3150 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 148 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1905 kg | 730 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5160 mm | 3980 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1590 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3090 mm | 2630 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 13.4 L/100km | 6.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 88 L | 40 L |
