1966 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2009 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 43 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1966 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1966 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 2,306 cc (6 cylinders), 1966 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1966 Mercedes-Benz SL (149 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 41 more horse power than 2009 Mercedes-Benz A. (108 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1966 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2009 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 1530 kg more than 1966 Mercedes-Benz SL.
Because 1966 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 1966 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 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, 2009 Mercedes-Benz A (250 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 54 more torque (in Nm) than 1966 Mercedes-Benz SL. (196 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz A will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1966 Mercedes-Benz SL.
Compare all specifications:
| 1966 Mercedes-Benz SL | 2009 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | SL | A |
| Year Released | 1966 | 2009 |
| 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 |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 149 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 196 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 21.0:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1300 kg | 2830 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 |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 52 L | 60 L |
