2009 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 1998 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Volkswagen Polo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Volkswagen Polo would be higher. At 6,208 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz S (518 HP @ 6800 RPM) has 444 more horse power than 1998 Volkswagen Polo. (74 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1998 Volkswagen Polo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 336 kg more than 1998 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 S 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 S. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 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 S (631 Nm @ 5200 RPM) has 496 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Volkswagen Polo. (135 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Volkswagen Polo. 2009 Mercedes-Benz S has automatic transmission and 1998 Volkswagen Polo has manual transmission. 1998 Volkswagen Polo will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mercedes-Benz S | 1998 Volkswagen Polo | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | S | Polo |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 6208 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 518 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6800 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 631 Nm | 135 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5200 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1326 kg | 990 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5210 mm | 4150 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3170 mm | 2410 mm |
