1998 Mercedes-Benz A vs. 2007 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2007 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 9 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 5,439 cc (8 cylinders), 2007 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Mercedes-Benz SL (510 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 430 more horse power than 1998 Mercedes-Benz A. (80 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1998 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 865 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 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, 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, 2007 Mercedes-Benz SL (720 Nm @ 2600 RPM) has 590 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mercedes-Benz A. (130 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2007 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mercedes-Benz A.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Mercedes-Benz A | 2007 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A | SL |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2007 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1397 cc | 5439 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 80 HP | 510 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6100 RPM |
| Torque | 130 Nm | 720 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 2600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 97.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 69.5 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 14.6 seconds | 4.5 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 | 1960 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 Consumption | 6.3 L/100km | 11.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 10.4 L/100km | 16.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 7.8 L/100km | 13.5 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 80 L |
