2009 Mercedes-Benz CLK vs. 1996 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLK is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Volkswagen Polo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Volkswagen Polo would be higher. At 3,498 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLK (268 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 205 more horse power than 1996 Volkswagen Polo. (63 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLK should accelerate faster than 1996 Volkswagen Polo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLK weights approximately 125 kg more than 1996 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 CLK 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 CLK. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 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 CLK (350 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 225 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volkswagen Polo. (125 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volkswagen Polo. 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLK has automatic transmission and 1996 Volkswagen Polo has manual transmission. 1996 Volkswagen Polo will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLK will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLK | 1996 Volkswagen Polo | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | CLK | Polo |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3498 cc | 1896 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 268 HP | 63 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 350 Nm | 125 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 2200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1225 kg | 1100 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4640 mm | 4150 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1420 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1750 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2410 mm |
