2005 Mercedes-Benz E vs. 1988 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz E is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Volkswagen Polo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Volkswagen Polo would be higher. At 5,439 cc (8 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz E (469 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 425 more horse power than 1988 Volkswagen Polo. (44 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 1988 Volkswagen Polo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 1066 kg more than 1988 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, 1988 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 (700 Nm @ 2650 RPM) has 605 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Volkswagen Polo. (95 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Volkswagen Polo. 2005 Mercedes-Benz E has automatic transmission and 1988 Volkswagen Polo has manual transmission. 1988 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 | 1988 Volkswagen Polo | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | E | Polo |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1988 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5439 cc | 1043 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 469 HP | 44 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6100 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 700 Nm | 95 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2650 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1836 kg | 770 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4840 mm | 3660 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1590 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2340 mm |
