1998 Mercedes-Benz A vs. 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Mercedes-Benz A. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Mercedes-Benz A would be higher. At 5,437 cc (8 cylinders), 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL (469 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 368 more horse power than 1998 Mercedes-Benz A. (101 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1998 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 835 kg more than 1998 Mercedes-Benz A. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2001 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 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 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, 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL (700 Nm @ 2650 RPM) has 550 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mercedes-Benz A. (150 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mercedes-Benz A. 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 1998 Mercedes-Benz A has manual transmission. 1998 Mercedes-Benz A will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Mercedes-Benz A | 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A | SL |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 5437 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 101 HP | 469 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6100 RPM |
| Torque | 150 Nm | 700 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2650 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 97 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79.5 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1120 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 |
