2000 Mercedes-Benz SLK vs. 1983 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 2000 Mercedes-Benz SLK is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Volkswagen Polo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Volkswagen Polo would be higher. At 3,199 cc (6 cylinders), 2000 Mercedes-Benz SLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2000 Mercedes-Benz SLK (190 HP) has 151 more horse power than 1983 Volkswagen Polo. (39 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2000 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 1983 Volkswagen Polo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2000 Mercedes-Benz SLK weights approximately 723 kg more than 1983 Volkswagen Polo. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2000 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 2000 Mercedes-Benz SLK. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1983 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, 2000 Mercedes-Benz SLK (271 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 197 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Volkswagen Polo. (74 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 2000 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Volkswagen Polo.
Compare all specifications:
| 2000 Mercedes-Benz SLK | 1983 Volkswagen Polo | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | SLK | Polo |
| Year Released | 2000 | 1983 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3199 cc | 1043 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 190 HP | 39 HP |
| Torque | 271 Nm | 74 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 240 km/hour | 135 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 | 1425 kg | 702 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4020 mm | 3770 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1580 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2400 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 11.1 L/100km | 6.5 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 40 L |
