1997 Mercedes-Benz A vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL

To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 11 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 5,461 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL (384 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 296 more horse power than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. (88 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 815 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 2008 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 2008 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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL (530 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 350 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. (180 Nm @ 1600 RPM). This means 2008 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 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL
Make Mercedes-Benz Mercedes-Benz
Model A SL
Year Released 1997 2008
Body Type Hatchback Convertible
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1689 cc 5461 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 8 cylinders
Engine Type in-line V
Horse Power 88 HP 384 HP
Engine RPM 4200 RPM 6000 RPM
Torque 180 Nm 530 Nm
Torque RPM 1600 RPM 2800 RPM
Engine Bore Size 80 mm 98 mm
Engine Stroke Size 84 mm 90.5 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 19.0:1 10.7:1
Top Speed 173 km/hour 250 km/hour
Acceleration 0-100mph 13.2 seconds 5.4 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 1910 kg
Vehicle Length 3580 mm 4540 mm
Vehicle Width 1730 mm 1830 mm
Vehicle Height 1580 mm 1300 mm
Wheelbase Size 2430 mm 2570 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 54 L 80 L


 

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