2004 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2005 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 2005 Volkswagen Polo is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 4,966 cc (8 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL (302 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 228 more horse power than 2005 Volkswagen Polo. (74 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2005 Volkswagen Polo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 590 kg more than 2005 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 SL 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 SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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 SL (460 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 265 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Volkswagen Polo. (195 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Volkswagen Polo. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 2005 Volkswagen Polo has manual transmission. 2005 Volkswagen Polo will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL | 2005 Volkswagen Polo | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | SL | Polo |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4966 cc | 1422 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 302 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 460 Nm | 195 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 2200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Diesel |
| Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 165 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 6.3 seconds | 13.6 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1880 kg | 1290 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 45 L |
