2001 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 1998 Mercedes-Benz A
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.
Compare all specifications:
2001 Mercedes-Benz SL | 1998 Mercedes-Benz A | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | SL | A |
Year Released | 2001 | 1998 |
Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 5437 cc | 1598 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 469 HP | 101 HP |
Engine RPM | 6100 RPM | 5600 RPM |
Torque | 700 Nm | 150 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2650 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 97 mm | 80 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 92 mm | 79.5 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 11.0:1 |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
Vehicle Weight | 1955 kg | 1120 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 3580 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1590 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2430 mm |