2008 Mercedes-Benz A vs. 1996 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 12 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 1,699 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz A is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 154 kg more than 1996 Volkswagen Polo.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz A (155 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 15 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volkswagen Polo. (140 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz A will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volkswagen Polo. 2008 Mercedes-Benz A 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. 2008 Mercedes-Benz A will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mercedes-Benz A | 1996 Volkswagen Polo | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | A | Polo |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1699 cc | 1595 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 0 HP | 100 HP |
| Torque | 155 Nm | 140 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83.1 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.5 mm | 77.4 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1240 kg | 1086 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3840 mm | 4150 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1600 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2410 mm |
