2003 Mercedes-Benz E vs. 1991 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 2003 Mercedes-Benz E is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1991 Volkswagen Polo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1991 Volkswagen Polo would be higher. At 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mercedes-Benz E (174 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 131 more horse power than 1991 Volkswagen Polo. (43 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 1991 Volkswagen Polo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 870 kg more than 1991 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, 1991 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 @ 3000 RPM) has 164 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Volkswagen Polo. (76 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2003 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 Volkswagen Polo. 2003 Mercedes-Benz E has automatic transmission and 1991 Volkswagen Polo has manual transmission. 1991 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 | 1991 Volkswagen Polo | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | E | Polo |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1991 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 1043 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 174 HP | 43 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 76 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 214 km/hour | 145 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1720 kg | 850 kg |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 50 L |
