1997 Mercedes-Benz A vs. 2005 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Mercedes-Benz A would be higher. At 5,506 cc (8 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren (618 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 560 more horse power than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. (58 HP @ 3600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren should accelerate faster than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren weights approximately 610 kg more than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2005 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren 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 2005 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 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, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren (780 Nm @ 3250 RPM) has 620 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. (160 Nm @ 1500 RPM). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Mercedes-Benz A | 2005 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A | SLR McLaren |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1689 cc | 5506 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 58 HP | 618 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3600 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 160 Nm | 780 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1500 RPM | 3250 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 97 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 19.5:1 | 8.8:1 |
| Top Speed | 150 km/hour | 334 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 18.8 seconds | 3.8 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1120 kg | 1730 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3580 mm | 4660 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1910 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1580 mm | 1270 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2850 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 98 L |
