2008 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 1985 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Volkswagen Polo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Volkswagen Polo would be higher. At 5,513 cc (12 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL (510 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 472 more horse power than 1985 Volkswagen Polo. (38 HP @ 5300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1985 Volkswagen Polo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 1345 kg more than 1985 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 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 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1985 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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL (830 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 756 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Volkswagen Polo. (74 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Volkswagen Polo. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 1985 Volkswagen Polo has manual transmission. 1985 Volkswagen Polo will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL | 1985 Volkswagen Polo | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | SL | Polo |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1985 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5513 cc | 1043 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 510 HP | 38 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Torque | 830 Nm | 74 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1900 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 87 mm | 59 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2045 kg | 700 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 3660 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1590 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2340 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 55 L |
