1997 Mercedes-Benz A vs. 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 9 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 5,982 cc (12 cylinders), 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL (605 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 517 more horse power than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. (88 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 505 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 2006 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 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL. 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, 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL (1,001 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 821 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. (180 Nm @ 1600 RPM). This means 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL 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 | 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | A | SL |
Year Released | 1997 | 2006 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1689 cc | 5982 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 88 HP | 605 HP |
Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 180 Nm | 1001 Nm |
Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 2000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 82.6 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 93 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 19.0:1 | 11.0:1 |
Acceleration 0-100mph | 13.2 seconds | 4.2 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 | 1095 kg | 1600 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3580 mm | 4540 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1820 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1580 mm | 1300 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2570 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 80 L |