2007 Mercedes-Benz B vs. 1996 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 2007 Mercedes-Benz B is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Volkswagen Polo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Volkswagen Polo would be higher. At 2,032 cc (4 cylinders), 2007 Mercedes-Benz B is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Mercedes-Benz B (190 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 90 more horse power than 1996 Volkswagen Polo. (100 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 Mercedes-Benz B should accelerate faster than 1996 Volkswagen Polo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Mercedes-Benz B weights approximately 284 kg more than 1996 Volkswagen Polo. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2007 Mercedes-Benz B 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 2007 Mercedes-Benz B. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 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, 2007 Mercedes-Benz B (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 140 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volkswagen Polo. (140 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2007 Mercedes-Benz B will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volkswagen Polo. 2007 Mercedes-Benz B has automatic transmission and 1996 Volkswagen Polo has manual transmission. 1996 Volkswagen Polo will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2007 Mercedes-Benz B will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Mercedes-Benz B | 1996 Volkswagen Polo | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | B | Polo |
| Year Released | 2007 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2032 cc | 1595 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 190 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 140 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 94 mm | 77.4 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1370 kg | 1086 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4280 mm | 4150 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2780 mm | 2410 mm |
