2002 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2006 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 3,724 cc (6 cylinders), 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL (242 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 108 more horse power than 2006 Mercedes-Benz A. (134 HP @ 5750 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2006 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 515 kg more than 2006 Mercedes-Benz A. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2002 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 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 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, 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL (350 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 165 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Mercedes-Benz A. (185 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Mercedes-Benz A.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL | 2006 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | SL | A |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3724 cc | 2033 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 242 HP | 134 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 350 Nm | 185 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 97 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 94 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 200 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7.2 seconds | 9.8 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1755 kg | 1240 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 3840 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1600 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 54 L |
