2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK vs. 2008 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Polo is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK would be higher. At 2,297 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK (94 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 2008 Volkswagen Polo. (74 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 2008 Volkswagen Polo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK weights approximately 345 kg more than 2008 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 SLK 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 SLK. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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 SLK (271 Nm) has 76 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Volkswagen Polo. (195 Nm). This means 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Volkswagen Polo. 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK has automatic transmission and 2008 Volkswagen Polo has manual transmission. 2008 Volkswagen Polo will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK | 2008 Volkswagen Polo | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | SLK | Polo |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2297 cc | 1422 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 94 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 271 Nm | 195 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1435 kg | 1090 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4020 mm | 3910 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1530 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2470 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 88 L | 49 L |
