2008 Mercedes-Benz G vs. 1996 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz G 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 3,199 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz G is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz G (212 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 149 more horse power than 1996 Volkswagen Polo. (63 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz G should accelerate faster than 1996 Volkswagen Polo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz G weights approximately 1209 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 2008 Mercedes-Benz G is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 Volkswagen Polo. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz G will offer significantly more control. 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 G (300 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 176 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volkswagen Polo. (124 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz G will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volkswagen Polo. 2008 Mercedes-Benz G 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 G will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mercedes-Benz G | 1996 Volkswagen Polo | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | G | Polo |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1996 |
| Body Type | SUV | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3199 cc | 1896 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 212 HP | 63 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 124 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Diesel |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 2244 kg | 1035 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4260 mm | 3720 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1950 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2410 mm |
