1997 Mercedes-Benz A vs. 2007 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2007 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 10 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 5,439 cc (8 cylinders), 2007 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Mercedes-Benz SL (469 HP @ 2650 RPM) has 346 more horse power than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. (123 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 95 kg more than 2007 Mercedes-Benz SL.
Because 2007 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 2007 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, 2007 Mercedes-Benz SL (701 Nm @ 2650 RPM) has 521 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. (180 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2007 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 | 2007 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A | SL |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2007 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1898 cc | 5439 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 123 HP | 469 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 2650 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 701 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2650 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 97 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85.6 mm | 92 mm |
| Top Speed | 193 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 10.2 seconds | 4.7 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 | 2050 kg | 1955 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3580 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1590 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Consumption | 6.3 L/100km | 11.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 11.3 L/100km | 16.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.2 L/100km | 14.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 80 L |
