2004 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 1998 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Volkswagen Polo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Volkswagen Polo would be higher. At 3,724 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz S (242 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 168 more horse power than 1998 Volkswagen Polo. (74 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1998 Volkswagen Polo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 820 kg more than 1998 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 S 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 S. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 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 S (350 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 215 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Volkswagen Polo. (135 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Volkswagen Polo. 2004 Mercedes-Benz S has automatic transmission and 1998 Volkswagen Polo has manual transmission. 1998 Volkswagen Polo will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2004 Mercedes-Benz S | 1998 Volkswagen Polo | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
Model | S | Polo |
Year Released | 2004 | 1998 |
Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3724 cc | 1598 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 242 HP | 74 HP |
Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 4800 RPM |
Torque | 350 Nm | 135 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2800 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1810 kg | 990 kg |
Vehicle Length | 5050 mm | 4150 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1650 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1440 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2410 mm |