2006 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 1998 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Volkswagen Polo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Volkswagen Polo would be higher. At 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mercedes-Benz C (162 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 88 more horse power than 1998 Volkswagen Polo. (74 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1998 Volkswagen Polo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 705 kg more than 1998 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, 1998 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 (240 Nm) has 105 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Volkswagen Polo. (135 Nm). This means 2006 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Volkswagen Polo.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mercedes-Benz C | 1998 Volkswagen Polo | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | C | Polo |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 162 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 135 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1695 kg | 990 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4860 mm | 4150 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1500 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2410 mm |
