2007 Volkswagen Polo vs. 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2007 Volkswagen Polo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2007 Volkswagen Polo would be higher. At 5,500 cc (8 cylinders), 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL (382 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 253 more horse power than 2007 Volkswagen Polo. (129 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2007 Volkswagen Polo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 740 kg more than 2007 Volkswagen Polo. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2011 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 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2007 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, 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL (530 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 220 more torque (in Nm) than 2007 Volkswagen Polo. (310 Nm @ 1900 RPM). This means 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2007 Volkswagen Polo. 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 2007 Volkswagen Polo has manual transmission. 2007 Volkswagen Polo will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Volkswagen Polo | 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Polo | SL |
| Year Released | 2007 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1896 cc | 5500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 129 HP | 382 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 310 Nm | 530 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1900 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1174 kg | 1914 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3920 mm | 4582 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1816 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1298 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2560 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 80 L |
