1989 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 2,962 cc (6 cylinders), 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL (228 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 114 more horse power than 2012 Mercedes-Benz A. (114 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2012 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 1142 kg more than 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL.
Because 1989 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 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 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, 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL (267 Nm @ 4600 RPM) has 112 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Mercedes-Benz A. (155 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Mercedes-Benz A.
Compare all specifications:
1989 Mercedes-Benz SL | 2012 Mercedes-Benz A | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | SL | A |
Year Released | 1989 | 2012 |
Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2962 cc | 1699 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 228 HP | 114 HP |
Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 267 Nm | 155 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4600 RPM | 3500 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 88.6 mm | 83 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 80.3 mm | 78.5 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 11.0:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1690 kg | 2832 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 3840 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1770 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1600 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2570 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 60 L |