2004 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 1976 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Volkswagen Polo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Volkswagen Polo would be higher. At 3,197 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz C (215 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 176 more horse power than 1976 Volkswagen Polo. (39 HP @ 5900 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1976 Volkswagen Polo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 915 kg more than 1976 Volkswagen Polo. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 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 2004 Mercedes-Benz C. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1976 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, 2004 Mercedes-Benz C (315 Nm) has 258 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Volkswagen Polo. (57 Nm). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Volkswagen Polo.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Mercedes-Benz C | 1976 Volkswagen Polo | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | C | Polo |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1976 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3197 cc | 895 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 215 HP | 39 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5900 RPM |
| Torque | 315 Nm | 57 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 89.9 mm | 69.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 59 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 8.2:1 |
| Top Speed | 244 km/hour | 135 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1605 kg | 690 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 3510 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1570 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2810 mm | 2340 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 35 L |
