1998 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2001 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2001 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 5,439 cc (8 cylinders), 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL (349 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 249 more horse power than 2001 Mercedes-Benz A. (100 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2001 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 750 kg more than 2001 Mercedes-Benz A. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1998 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 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 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, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL (530 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 379 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Mercedes-Benz A. (151 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Mercedes-Benz A.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL | 2001 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | SL | A |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5439 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 349 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 530 Nm | 151 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 178 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 6.2 seconds | 12.2 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1820 kg | 1070 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 3780 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1600 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2830 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 54 L |
