2006 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 1976 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Volkswagen Polo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Volkswagen Polo would be higher. At 2,148 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mercedes-Benz C (148 HP) has 109 more horse power than 1976 Volkswagen Polo. (39 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1976 Volkswagen Polo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 1085 kg more than 1976 Volkswagen Polo. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2006 Mercedes-Benz C 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 2006 Mercedes-Benz C. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1976 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, 2006 Mercedes-Benz C (340 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 266 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Volkswagen Polo. (74 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 2006 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Volkswagen Polo. 2006 Mercedes-Benz C has automatic transmission and 1976 Volkswagen Polo has manual transmission. 1976 Volkswagen Polo will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Mercedes-Benz C will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mercedes-Benz C | 1976 Volkswagen Polo | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | C | Polo |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1976 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2148 cc | 1043 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 39 HP |
| Torque | 340 Nm | 74 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 88 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88.3 mm | 59 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 224 km/hour | 135 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1785 kg | 700 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4860 mm | 3660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1500 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2410 mm |
