2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK vs. 1984 Volkswagen Polo

To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1984 Volkswagen Polo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1984 Volkswagen Polo would be higher. At 5,439 cc (8 cylinders), 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK (355 HP) has 316 more horse power than 1984 Volkswagen Polo. (39 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 1984 Volkswagen Polo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK weights approximately 990 kg more than 1984 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 SLK 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 SLK. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1984 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 SLK (511 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 437 more torque (in Nm) than 1984 Volkswagen Polo. (74 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1984 Volkswagen Polo. 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK has automatic transmission and 1984 Volkswagen Polo has manual transmission. 1984 Volkswagen Polo will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK 1984 Volkswagen Polo
Make Mercedes-Benz Volkswagen
Model SLK Polo
Year Released 2006 1984
Body Type Convertible Hatchback
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 5439 cc 1042 cc
Engine Cylinders 8 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Horse Power 355 HP 39 HP
Torque 511 Nm 74 Nm
Torque RPM 4000 RPM 2700 RPM
Engine Bore Size 97 mm 75 mm
Engine Stroke Size 92 mm 59 mm
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Top Speed 250 km/hour 135 km/hour
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Automatic Manual
Number of Seats 2 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 5 doors
Vehicle Weight 1690 kg 700 kg
Vehicle Length 4090 mm 3660 mm
Vehicle Width 1800 mm 1590 mm
Vehicle Height 1280 mm 1360 mm
Wheelbase Size 2410 mm 2410 mm
Fuel Consumption Overall 13 L/100km 6.5 L/100km
Fuel Tank Capacity 70 L 40 L