2008 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2009 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 2009 Volkswagen Polo is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL 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 427 more horse power than 2009 Volkswagen Polo. (83 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2009 Volkswagen Polo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 866 kg more than 2009 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, 2009 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 597 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Volkswagen Polo. (123 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Volkswagen Polo. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 2009 Volkswagen Polo has manual transmission. 2009 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 | 2009 Volkswagen Polo | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | SL | Polo |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5439 cc | 1390 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 510 HP | 83 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6100 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 720 Nm | 123 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2600 RPM | 2750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 97 mm | 75.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92 mm | 76.5 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 176 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 4.7 seconds | 12.4 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1955 kg | 1089 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 3920 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2470 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 14.6 L/100km | 6.9 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 45 L |
