2009 Mercedes-Benz CLS vs. 1996 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLS 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 6,208 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLS (507 HP @ 6800 RPM) has 444 more horse power than 1996 Volkswagen Polo. (63 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLS should accelerate faster than 1996 Volkswagen Polo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLS weights approximately 290 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 CLS 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 CLS. 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 CLS (631 Nm @ 5200 RPM) has 507 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volkswagen Polo. (124 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volkswagen Polo. 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLS 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 CLS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2009 Mercedes-Benz CLS | 1996 Volkswagen Polo | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
Model | CLS | Polo |
Year Released | 2009 | 1996 |
Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 6208 cc | 1896 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 507 HP | 63 HP |
Engine RPM | 6800 RPM | 4400 RPM |
Torque | 631 Nm | 124 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5200 RPM | 2000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Diesel | Diesel |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1325 kg | 1035 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4920 mm | 3720 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1870 mm | 1660 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1430 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2410 mm |