2004 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 2003 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Volkswagen Polo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Volkswagen Polo would be higher. At 1,983 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Volkswagen Polo is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz C (189 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 61 more horse power than 2003 Volkswagen Polo. (128 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 2003 Volkswagen Polo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 450 kg more than 2003 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, 2003 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 Volkswagen Polo (310 Nm) has 50 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Mercedes-Benz C. (260 Nm). This means 2003 Volkswagen Polo will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Mercedes-Benz C.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Mercedes-Benz C | 2003 Volkswagen Polo | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | C | Polo |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 1983 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 189 HP | 128 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 260 Nm | 310 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.5:1 | 19.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 235 km/hour | 206 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.7 seconds | 9.3 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1605 kg | 1155 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 3900 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2470 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 45 L |
