2002 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 2001 Volkswagen Polo

To start off, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Volkswagen Polo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Volkswagen Polo would be higher. At 5,513 cc (12 cylinders), 2002 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S (493 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 395 more horse power than 2001 Volkswagen Polo. (98 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2001 Volkswagen Polo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 970 kg more than 2001 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 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 2002 Mercedes-Benz S. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 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 S (801 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 561 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Volkswagen Polo. (240 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 2002 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Volkswagen Polo. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S has automatic transmission and 2001 Volkswagen Polo has manual transmission. 2001 Volkswagen Polo will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

2002 Mercedes-Benz S 2001 Volkswagen Polo
Make Mercedes-Benz Volkswagen
Model S Polo
Year Released 2002 2001
Body Type Sedan Hatchback
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 5513 cc 1895 cc
Engine Cylinders 12 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Horse Power 493 HP 98 HP
Engine RPM 5000 RPM 4000 RPM
Torque 801 Nm 240 Nm
Torque RPM 1800 RPM 1800 RPM
Engine Bore Size 82 mm 79.5 mm
Engine Stroke Size 87 mm 95.5 mm
Top Speed 250 km/hour 188 km/hour
Acceleration 0-100mph 4.8 seconds 10.7 seconds
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Automatic Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 5 doors
Vehicle Weight 2135 kg 1165 kg
Vehicle Length 5170 mm 3900 mm
Vehicle Width 1860 mm 1660 mm
Vehicle Height 1450 mm 1470 mm
Wheelbase Size 2720 mm 2520 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 88 L 45 L