2009 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 1978 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Volkswagen Polo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Volkswagen Polo would be higher. At 2,148 cc, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C (169 HP @ 3800 RPM) has 120 more horse power than 1978 Volkswagen Polo. (49 HP @ 5900 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1978 Volkswagen Polo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 540 kg more than 1978 Volkswagen Polo. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 Mercedes-Benz C 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 2009 Mercedes-Benz C. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1978 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, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C (400 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 323 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Volkswagen Polo. (77 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Volkswagen Polo.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mercedes-Benz C | 1978 Volkswagen Polo | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | C | Polo |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1978 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2148 cc | 1093 cc |
| Horse Power | 169 HP | 49 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 5900 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 77 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 88 mm | 69.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88.3 mm | 72 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1225 kg | 685 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 3510 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1450 mm | 1570 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1780 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2340 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 66 L | 35 L |
