1998 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2011 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2011 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 13 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 4,966 cc (8 cylinders), 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL (302 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 164 more horse power than 2011 Mercedes-Benz A. (138 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2011 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 525 kg more than 2011 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, 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, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL (461 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 161 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Mercedes-Benz A. (300 Nm @ 1600 RPM). This means 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Mercedes-Benz A. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 2011 Mercedes-Benz A has manual transmission. 2011 Mercedes-Benz A will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1998 Mercedes-Benz SL | 2011 Mercedes-Benz A | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | SL | A |
Year Released | 1998 | 2011 |
Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 4966 cc | 1991 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 302 HP | 138 HP |
Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 4200 RPM |
Torque | 461 Nm | 300 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 1600 RPM |
Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 196 km/hour |
Acceleration 0-100mph | 6.5 seconds | 9.5 seconds |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1890 kg | 1365 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 3840 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1770 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1600 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2570 mm |
Fuel Consumption Overall | 12.7 L/100km | 5.4 L/100km |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 54 L |