2001 Mercedes-Benz SLK vs. 2004 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Mercedes-Benz SLK. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Mercedes-Benz SLK would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2001 Mercedes-Benz SLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Mercedes-Benz SLK (161 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 2004 Mercedes-Benz A. (141 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 2004 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 75 kg more than 2001 Mercedes-Benz SLK.
Because 2001 Mercedes-Benz SLK 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 SLK. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 2004 Mercedes-Benz A (310 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 76 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Mercedes-Benz SLK. (234 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz A will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Mercedes-Benz SLK.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Mercedes-Benz SLK | 2004 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | SLK | A |
| Year Released | 2001 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 1991 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 161 HP | 141 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 234 Nm | 310 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1290 kg | 1365 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 3840 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1600 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 54 L |
