2005 Mercedes-Benz E vs. 1982 Volkswagen Polo

To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz E is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1982 Volkswagen Polo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1982 Volkswagen Polo would be higher. At 3,199 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz E (221 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 168 more horse power than 1982 Volkswagen Polo. (53 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 1982 Volkswagen Polo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 1035 kg more than 1982 Volkswagen Polo. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 2005 Mercedes-Benz E 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 2005 Mercedes-Benz E. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1982 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, 2005 Mercedes-Benz E (315 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 219 more torque (in Nm) than 1982 Volkswagen Polo. (96 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1982 Volkswagen Polo. 2005 Mercedes-Benz E has automatic transmission and 1982 Volkswagen Polo has manual transmission. 1982 Volkswagen Polo will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2005 Mercedes-Benz E will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

2005 Mercedes-Benz E 1982 Volkswagen Polo
Make Mercedes-Benz Volkswagen
Model E Polo
Year Released 2005 1982
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 3199 cc 1272 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Horse Power 221 HP 53 HP
Engine RPM 5600 RPM 5200 RPM
Torque 315 Nm 96 Nm
Torque RPM 3000 RPM 3400 RPM
Engine Bore Size 89.9 mm 75 mm
Engine Stroke Size 84 mm 72 mm
Fuel Type Gasoline - Premium Gasoline
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Automatic Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 5 doors 3 doors
Vehicle Weight 1785 kg 750 kg
Vehicle Length 4860 mm 3660 mm
Vehicle Width 1830 mm 1590 mm
Vehicle Height 1500 mm 1360 mm
Wheelbase Size 2830 mm 2340 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 80 L 55 L