2003 Mercedes-Benz E vs. 1983 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 2003 Mercedes-Benz E is newer by 20 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 2,597 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mercedes-Benz E (161 HP) has 122 more horse power than 1983 Volkswagen Polo. (39 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 1983 Volkswagen Polo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 1018 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 2003 Mercedes-Benz E 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 2003 Mercedes-Benz E. 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, 2003 Mercedes-Benz E (240 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 166 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Volkswagen Polo. (74 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 2003 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Volkswagen Polo. 2003 Mercedes-Benz E has automatic transmission and 1983 Volkswagen Polo has manual transmission. 1983 Volkswagen Polo will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Mercedes-Benz E will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Mercedes-Benz E | 1983 Volkswagen Polo | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | E | Polo |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1983 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2597 cc | 1043 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 161 HP | 39 HP |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 74 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89.9 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 68.2 mm | 59 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 220 km/hour | 135 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1720 kg | 702 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4860 mm | 3770 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1580 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1500 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2400 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 40 L |
