2004 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 1999 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Volkswagen Polo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Volkswagen Polo would be higher. At 5,441 cc (8 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz S (494 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 420 more horse power than 1999 Volkswagen Polo. (74 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1999 Volkswagen Polo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 960 kg more than 1999 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, 1999 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 (700 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 565 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 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 1999 Volkswagen Polo.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Mercedes-Benz S | 1999 Volkswagen Polo | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | S | Polo |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5441 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 494 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 700 Nm | 135 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1950 kg | 990 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5170 mm | 4150 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3090 mm | 2410 mm |
