2004 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 1978 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Volkswagen Polo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Volkswagen Polo would be higher. At 2,148 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz C (114 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 65 more horse power than 1978 Volkswagen Polo. (49 HP @ 5900 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1978 Volkswagen Polo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 827 kg more than 1978 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, 1978 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 (250 Nm @ 1400 RPM) has 173 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Volkswagen Polo. (77 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Volkswagen Polo. 2004 Mercedes-Benz C has automatic transmission and 1978 Volkswagen Polo has manual transmission. 1978 Volkswagen Polo will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 Mercedes-Benz C will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2004 Mercedes-Benz C | 1978 Volkswagen Polo | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
Model | C | Polo |
Year Released | 2004 | 1978 |
Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2148 cc | 1093 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 114 HP | 49 HP |
Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5900 RPM |
Torque | 250 Nm | 77 Nm |
Torque RPM | 1400 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 88 mm | 69.6 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 88.3 mm | 72 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 8.0:1 |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1512 kg | 685 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 3510 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1570 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1340 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2810 mm | 2340 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 69 L | 35 L |