1997 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2011 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2011 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 4,971 cc (8 cylinders), 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL (315 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 181 more horse power than 2011 Mercedes-Benz A. (134 HP @ 5750 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2011 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 1061 kg more than 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL.
Because 1997 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 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 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, 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL (468 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 283 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Mercedes-Benz A. (185 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Mercedes-Benz A.
Compare all specifications:
1997 Mercedes-Benz SL | 2011 Mercedes-Benz A | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | SL | A |
Year Released | 1997 | 2011 |
Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 4971 cc | 2034 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 315 HP | 134 HP |
Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5750 RPM |
Torque | 468 Nm | 185 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 3500 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 96.5 mm | 83 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 94 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 11.0:1 |
Top Speed | 249 km/hour | 200 km/hour |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1769 kg | 2830 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 3840 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1770 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1600 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2570 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 60 L |