2008 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 1997 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Volkswagen Polo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Volkswagen Polo would be higher. At 5,439 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL (510 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 461 more horse power than 1997 Volkswagen Polo. (49 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1997 Volkswagen Polo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 1000 kg more than 1997 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, 1997 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 (720 Nm @ 2600 RPM) has 634 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Volkswagen Polo. (86 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Volkswagen Polo. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 1997 Volkswagen Polo has manual transmission. 1997 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 | 1997 Volkswagen Polo | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | SL | Polo |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5439 cc | 1043 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 510 HP | 49 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6100 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 720 Nm | 86 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2600 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1955 kg | 955 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 3720 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2410 mm |
