1964 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2005 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 41 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1964 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1964 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 2,306 cc (6 cylinders), 1964 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1964 Mercedes-Benz SL (148 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 67 more horse power than 2005 Mercedes-Benz A. (81 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1964 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2005 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1964 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 2 kg more than 2005 Mercedes-Benz A. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1964 Mercedes-Benz SL 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 1964 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz A, 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, 1964 Mercedes-Benz SL (196 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 16 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Mercedes-Benz A. (180 Nm @ 1400 RPM). This means 1964 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Mercedes-Benz A.
Compare all specifications:
| 1964 Mercedes-Benz SL | 2005 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | SL | A |
| Year Released | 1964 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2306 cc | 1991 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 81 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 196 Nm | 180 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 1400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 83.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72.8 mm | 92 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1302 kg | 1300 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 3840 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1600 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2570 mm |
