2005 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 1999 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 6 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 5,513 cc (12 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL (493 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 419 more horse power than 1999 Volkswagen Polo. (74 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1999 Volkswagen Polo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 1050 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 2005 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 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL. 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, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL (800 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 665 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Volkswagen Polo. (135 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Volkswagen Polo. 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 1999 Volkswagen Polo has manual transmission. 1999 Volkswagen Polo will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL | 1999 Volkswagen Polo | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | SL | Polo |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5513 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 493 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 800 Nm | 135 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 2040 kg | 990 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 4150 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2410 mm |
