2002 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 1985 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 2002 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Volkswagen Polo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Volkswagen Polo would be higher. At 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mercedes-Benz C (175 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 59 more horse power than 1985 Volkswagen Polo. (116 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1985 Volkswagen Polo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 820 kg more than 1985 Volkswagen Polo. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2002 Mercedes-Benz C 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 2002 Mercedes-Benz C. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1985 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, 2002 Mercedes-Benz C (241 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 96 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Volkswagen Polo. (145 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2002 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Volkswagen Polo.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Mercedes-Benz C | 1985 Volkswagen Polo | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | C | Polo |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1985 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 1272 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 175 HP | 116 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 241 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 72 mm |
| Top Speed | 222 km/hour | 195 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1540 kg | 720 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 3660 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1590 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2340 mm |
