2002 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 2012 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Polo is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Mercedes-Benz C. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Mercedes-Benz C 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 (141 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 82 more horse power than 2012 Volkswagen Polo. (59 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 2012 Volkswagen Polo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 408 kg more than 2012 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, 2012 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 (220 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 112 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Volkswagen Polo. (108 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2002 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Volkswagen Polo.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Mercedes-Benz C | 2012 Volkswagen Polo | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | C | Polo |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 1200 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 141 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 220 Nm | 108 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Top Speed | 223 km/hour | 155 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 10 seconds | 16.1 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1475 kg | 1067 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 3970 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1682 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1462 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2470 mm |
