2009 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 2003 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Volkswagen Polo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Volkswagen Polo would be higher. At 2,148 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C (120 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 19 more horse power than 2003 Volkswagen Polo. (101 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 2003 Volkswagen Polo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 449 kg more than 2003 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, 2003 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 (270 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 144 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Volkswagen Polo. (126 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Volkswagen Polo.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mercedes-Benz C | 2003 Volkswagen Polo | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | C | Polo |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2148 cc | 1390 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 120 HP | 101 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 270 Nm | 126 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 88 mm | 76.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88.3 mm | 75.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 202 km/hour | 183 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 12.2 seconds | 12.4 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1555 kg | 1106 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 3910 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1530 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2590 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 7 L/100km | 6.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 45 L |
